The second of three pieces inspired by the Book of Revelation. The woman clothed with the sun, the moon at her feet and a crown of stars on her head; her child has been taken up into Heaven for safety while she has been given the wings of an eagleContinue Reading
The lamb, supported by the four living creatures, opens the first four seals.Continue Reading
“What we see, then, is that two societies have issued from two kinds of love. Worldly Society has flowered from a selfish love which dared to despise even God, whereas the Communion of Saints is rooted in a love of God that is ready to trample on self. In aContinue Reading
Christmas is not over; it’s just getting started. This year Christmastide stretches from December 26 to January 12. It is easy to get caught up in the rush of the season, December 25 has come and gone, the child is born, Midnight Mass is a fading memory and New Year’sContinue Reading
We know very little about this righteous man, but we do know some things. We know he was tempted. When Joseph became aware of Mary’s pregnancy, he had several options. He could have brought her before the village court but he was unwilling to expose her to shame. He consideredContinue Reading
The third Sunday of Advent is traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete is Latin for “joy.” In today’s readings we hear the word “joy” in one form or another six times. The rose colored candle in the advent wreath is a symbol of our joyful anticipation at the impending birthContinue Reading
Father,the image of the Virgin is found in the Church.Mary had a faith that your Spirit preparedand a love that never knew sin,for you kept her sinless from the first moment of her conception.Trace in our actions the lines of her love,in our hearts her readiness of faith.Prepare once againContinue Reading
There is an Orthodox icon that depicts John the Baptist with wings. It is called “The Angel of the Desert” and serves to remind us that John is one of God’s messengers. As we busily prepare for the feast that marks the birth of Our Lord and the salvation ofContinue Reading
Happy Saint Nicholas Day! Father,hear our prayers for mercy,and by the help of Saint Nicholaskeep us safe from all danger,and guide us on the way of salvation.Grant this through our Lord, Jesus Christ your Son,who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever,AmenContinue Reading
There are certain truths we know instinctively because they are written on our hearts. These are transcendent truths that appear again and again in our art and literature. We are all on a journey. We tell stories as metaphors for that journey. Even the ancients, who lived before the timeContinue Reading