VIGIL PRAYERS FOR POPE EMERITUS BENEDICT XVI

Longing for God – a sample Evening Prayer on the occasion of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI Resources for preparing homilies/reflections: https://www.usccb.org/news/2022/pope-benedict-eight-years-pope-capped-long-ministry-teacher-faith; https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/pope-benedict-xvi-has-died-at-the-age-of-95/ar-AA15PRXO?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=d44caff3614e4c028b93fffe0fae4068. January 3-4, 2023 Prepare beforehand: an alb for the presider (if an ordained minister presides, also a white stole) Charcoal (lit) in the thurible (censer) and a bowl of incense…Continue reading VIGIL PRAYERS FOR POPE EMERITUS BENEDICT XVI

The Ascension of the Lord

When a life is wholly lived for ‘another,’ when it unfolds as an embodiment of justice and sacrificial love for the ‘other,’ it becomes the fullness of life, a perfect antidote to death (the absence of life). This is what we, together with the first disciples, witnessed, learned, and celebrated in Christ’s death and resurrection…Continue reading The Ascension of the Lord

The True Gift of Christmas

‘Christmas’ (from Crīstesmæsse or Christ’s Mass), also known as The Nativity of the Lord, is one of the most important celebrations in the Christian tradition. The meaning of this feast, however, can only be understood fully when viewed through the event of the passion (suffering), death, and resurrection of Christ, which remains the central mystery of…Continue reading The True Gift of Christmas

Is Advent Worth Keeping?

It has become so difficult to celebrate Advent as a liturgical season distinct from Christmas that one sometimes wonders if it’s worth observing it at all. Already, at least by mid-November, the stores are full of Christmas decorations and ‘I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas’ is playing constantly in the background. Although COVID-19 has put…Continue reading Is Advent Worth Keeping?