With Advent sometimes called “a little Lent,” Catholic experts said there are important similarities and differences between the two liturgical seasons, both which lead up to major feast days. Advent, they agreed, is primarily a season of preparation.
Sometimes called ‘little Lent,’ Advent zeros in on preparation, which can include penitence
Ask Father Tom: Think of a time when awe held you speechless
The Church sets the Advent season of preparation to see the Lord in what might seem the worst of times for reflection and stillness. It is good to wait in silence for the saving help of the Lord.
Saint of the Month: St. Francis Xavier
St. Francis Xavier cared for the sick, taught children and catechized the baptized of India, the Indonesian islands and Japan.
Saint of the month: St. Margaret of Scotland
While royals aren’t typically known for their generosity, St. Margaret of Scotland was renowned for her care for the poor and marginalized, as well as her intense piety.
7 ways to say ‘thanks’ to God
How can we — sincerely say “thanks” to our Heavenly Father? Well, thankfully our Creator has given us a lot of ways to do just that. Seven appear here.
Father Ron Rolheiser: Helplessness as Fruitful
Sometimes passivity is more fruitful and generative than if we were doing something. We see an example of this in Jesus. He gave both his life and his death for us – but in separate moments.
Virtue of simplicity: How decluttering our lives and homes advances our spiritual lives
Religious brothers and sisters pledge a sacred oath that shields them from basements overrun by toys, collected miscellanea, and clutter. The simple life helps pave a path to heaven; a path laypeople would be wise to follow.
Through a glass darkly: With God there is always more
To be able to see into the depths of God’s Revelation, we need to have in us the mind of Christ Jesus, so often we consider a scene, in a shallow fashion, taking it at face value.