As we begin a new year (liturgical year that is), it is helpful to reflect on our spiritual growth. We can use the wisdom of the saints and the guidance of our Church to direct our path. Use these quotes to guide your prayer time this year and lead you to...
In case you hadn’t noticed, we’ve just had a Year of Mercy! It ends pretty soon, on November 20th. Maybe, like me, you start out on these extraordinary years full of interest and hope and enthusiasm, and get to the end a little worn out with the repetition of it and...
“If you don’t love it, you won’t wear it,” my mother always advises in fitting rooms. She doesn’t mean that I have to “love” clothes the same way that I love people. I wouldn’t sacrifice myself for a pair of jeans as I would for my family. She means that if I don’t...
Recently, my parents and I were away for the weekend for vacation. When we walked into our house Sunday afternoon, it smelled horrible in our kitchen. There was a strange pool of liquid, and I saw pinkish-red splatter all over the sticky floor. While we stared at the...
Money can buy happiness? As Fr. Mike Schmitz points out, yes, money actually can buy happiness if you spend it on other people. Spending money on other people can “buy happiness” because it doesn’t have to do with the money—it has to do with gratitude, sharing,...
Remember the refreshing feel of that ice cold drink of water after you mowed the lawn or ran a marathon or woke up realizing you are thirsty beyond compare? At times, nothing else can really satisfy us like a glass of clear, pure, clean water. God has provided us the...
“Would you be able to donate blood this week?” a lady asked over the phone. “We’re trying to prepare for any potential accidents over Fourth of July weekend.” I was impressed with the blood center’s pragmatic preparations, but I also found it amusing that while...
We’re already halfway through the Year of Mercy, a time when the Church (that’s us!) is invited to discover God’s mercy for ourselves, as well as for those around us. Pope Francis has been very clear on the importance of this and has encouraged us to “assist others...
Watching movies can be a great way to identify themes that relate to our faith. Below I have compiled a list of films that relate to the theme of mercy. I encourage you (even if you have seen them) to watch them as they may offer you guidance or suggestions on how...
Who can receive God’s mercy? Who is eligible to attain this great gift? “I have decided to announce an Extraordinary Jubilee which has at its center the mercy of God. It will be a Holy Year of Mercy. We want to live in the light of the word of the Lord: “Be...
As the Year of Mercy is now underway, I would suggest taking a moment to reflect on the official logo. While our own artistic sensibilities may vary, it’s always important to ask: God, how might You be speaking to me through this? Is there something here that I am...