The Christmas Epiphany cycle offers a series of windows into the mystery of the birth and manifestation of Jesus rather than a sequential tour through the infancy narratives The already rich fare of the Christmas season was expanded within the last century by the addition of the feast of the Holy

Two years ago on Epiphany eve I was visiting a stellar family with four exuberant little boys ranging in age from 8 to 2 Johnny age 5 and I were looking through the family Christmas cards and he seemed especially fascinated by the varied and elaborate illustrations of the visit of the Magi came

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

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

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

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