by Mary Clifford Morrell
Many years ago, while our six sons were young and we were still adventurous, we drive across the country from New Jersey to Montana with our friends and their five children. When we were not taking a headcount, we were often spellbound by the magnificence of Creation that greeted us at every turn, reflecting the nature of our Creator—unlimited generosity, love, and potential.
Question of the Week - The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
Pulling into a parking spot at the fabric store, I opened my car door and was putting on my mask when an elderly woman rolled down her window, pointed to my car, and said, "I wish I had never gotten rid of mine. It was the best car I ever had." Now, you might think I drive some luxury vehicle, but the truth is that I drive a small 2014 hatchback with nearly 100,000 miles on it to date. We are not talking about anything fancy or new.
Question of the Week - The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
For most of us, the holidays are a time of traditions, when memories of past celebrations help frame our present rituals, and “do you remember” is a big part of dinner conversation.
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace . . . a plea throughout the ages, and still our fervent prayer.
Join with Christians around the world for World Day of Peace. Free discussion-starters and prayer resources for your family, school, or parish.
Question of the Week - Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year B
Today we hear the Gospel proclaimed just a couple of weeks ago, on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In my reflection for the solemnity, I suggested a simple ritual prayer that focused on surrendering the seemingly impossible situations in our lives to God’s care.
Every year, as my husband puts up the Christmas manger he built for us many years ago, I think back to the first time I discovered a ceramic goose among the small group of animals looking in on Mary and Joseph.
At the time, I laughed and thought, "Why not?" There are geese in Bethlehem, and why should sheep, oxen, donkeys, and camels be the only ones blessed with such a privilege?
Question of the Week - Third Sunday of Advent, Year B
Celebrating 50 Years Catholic Campaign For Human Development
Like most parents, when my children were growing up, I did a lot of watching and waiting. I think the waiting was harder of the two. It involves a certain amount of trust to overcome any doubt or fear, which may be part of the wait.
Question of the Week - The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Question of the Week, December 6, 2020, Second Sunday of Advent, Year B
The year 2020 has undoubtedly been an exercise in patience on many levels! We have done much waiting—for answers, for vaccines, for some sense of normalcy.
In today’s Second Reading (see 1 Peter 3:8-14), we are reminded that God has been patient with us and that we are awaiting new heavens and a new earth. We are charged to wait in peace.
Now that December is here, we may find ourselves acutely aware of time, how much or how little we have in light of how much we need to accomplish before Christmas arrives.
Our focus is on linear time, clicking forward second by second without a pause, keeping our sights forever on the future, and in the process of keeping time, we often lose our ability to live in the present.
Enjoy these free downloadable and printable activities, prayers, and more for celebrating the season!