Luke rsquo s infancy narratives have shaped the Catholic imagination and inspired Christian art through the centuries providing a series of verbal icons as we contemplate again the mystery of the Word made flesh The visit of Mary to Elizabeth from today rsquo s Gospel is often depicted in art wit
The Word
Posted inThe Word
Poetry
The readings for Christmas midnight Mass are a liturgy in poetry that has shaped Christmas devotion through the ages A mood of joyful surprise runs throughout Upon those who dwell in the land of gloom a light has shone the grace of God has appeared saving all I proclaim to you good news of gre
Posted inThe Word
Waiting for the Good News
For seven years I taught in Nashville which is known not only for its rich musical tradition but also as a place where biblical religion was vital in peoples rsquo lives Riding along one day I saw on a church bulletin board the Sunday sermon announced Repent for the End Is Near The topic for
Posted inThe Word
Man of the Year
The readings today throb with a sense of joyful expectation The prophet Baruch echoes a hope for release from exile and oppression by portraying Lady Jerusalem as a priest who takes off the robes of mourning and puts on the cloak of God rsquo s justice and the miter that displays the glory of God r
Posted inFaith, The Word
The Beginning of the End
As we prepare to celebrate the first coming of Jesus in history, the readings remind us that Christians should shape their faith in terms of hopes as well as of memories.
Posted inThe Word
Graced And Gracious
This celebration is especially appropriate at the beginning of Advent when we recall the two great figures of expectation who prepared for the coming of Christ John the Baptist and Mary Forming a virtual liturgical Ode to Joy the readings resound with affirmations of the gracious love of God sho
Posted inFaith, The Word
A King in Disguise
To celebrate Christ as king is to enter into the deepest mysteries of faith.
Posted inThe Word
When the End Is Not the End
s the days grow shorter and the trees become bare ruin rsquo d choirs where late the sweet birds sang Shakespeare Sonnet 132 the liturgical year winds down with images of the end of history Daniel speaks of a time unsurpassed in distress but followed by a general resurrection of the dead when
Posted inFaith, The Word
You’ll Never Walk Alone
As Mark’s Jesus walks toward Jerusalem and his death, he comes across an assorted group of little people who embody Gospel values.
Posted inThe Word
Back to Basics
People often wonder What does it mean to be a good Catholic A cacophony of voices shouts answers go to Mass every Sunday obey the teaching of the pope be concerned about the poor and about injustice in the world experience the gifts of God rsquo s Spirit In an age of hyper-communication Catho