Each year we hear the perennial objections of those who lament hearing the salutation, “Season’s Greetings” instead of “Merry Christmas.” The common complaint, of course, is that this season is about the birth of the Christ, the savior of humankind. Thus, the reasoning goes, recourse to the general reference of …

Tip-Toe Twinkle, the name of our Elf on the Shelf, arrived in our house by surprise one December day a few years ago. For the remainder of the month, he would occasionally cause mischief about the house while we parents grumbled about the mess left behind. However, the next year, …

Have you ever felt “spiritually dry”—that sense of struggling to pray, not feeling connected to the Creator, or even doubting? Maybe you’re not praying as much or wondering what you did to deserve something bad happening in your life. I certainly have, and I know I’m not the only one. …

by Francesca Pollio Denver Newsroom, Nov 27, 2021 / 09:00 am During the holidays, nativity scenes and Christmas trees decorate most Catholic homes, but what about Advent wreaths? Advent wreaths are traditionally made from evergreen branches and have four candles. The four candles represent the four weeks of Advent—three candles …

by Kelsey Wicks Denver, Colo., Nov 28, 2022 / 06:36 am The First Sunday of Advent 2022 is Nov. 27, exactly four weeks before the Sunday of Christmas this year, and while the Church provides this time to allow you to be caught by the joy of the Incarnation, you …

By Sr Constance Veit, lsp Our motherhouse is located on a large property in a tiny village in rural France. With its old stone buildings, expansive pastures, flower gardens and shaded pathways, it’s a gorgeously bucolic setting and the most peaceful place I’ve ever been. During the year that I …

Every year the Church blesses us with a season to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Lord at Christmas. Much exterior preparation takes place during the four weeks of Advent: we decorate our homes, purchase gifts for loved ones, bake cookies and host parties. All of these things should …

by Francesca Pollio Fenton Denver, Colo., Nov 20, 2022 / 11:00 am It’s that time of year again! Time to decorate the Christmas tree, hang the stockings, and grab your favorite Advent calendar. What exactly are Advent calendars, and how did they come about? It is said that the Advent …

  Advent Reflection for November 28- First Sunday of Advent Jeremiah 33:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2; Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 Invitation to Prayer: Let us lift up our souls to the Lord, Who will make known to us His ways, and teach us His paths. Reflection: “Are we there yet?” This is …

by Katie Yoder Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Dec 20, 2021 / 14:10 pm Catholics should contemplate death in preparation for Baby Jesus’ birth, according to Sr. Danielle Victoria. “Baby Jesus came to die for us,” she told CNA of the temptation to over-sentimentalize him. Even in art – as a baby …