The two essential conditions to be united perfectly with God are found in their fullness in Mary. The first condition is that there be not even the slightest trace of self-will. That is, that there are no earthly attachments leading us to acquire wealth, power, pleasure and honor, nothing – no thing – moving us...
“Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Solitude grows the interior life. Intentional disciples exercise a daily discipline or habit that includes pausing from activities and removing distractions in order that their inner strength – their soul – will be seek God. Absent daily prayer that creates contemplative moments, genuine spiritual vitality...
Advent is a special season of grace offered to increase interior silence. Make the most of opportunities to listen to God’s Word and prepare for His arrival.
On the Second Sunday of Advent, the Church directs our attention to John the Baptist (Luke 3:1-6). Everything in John’s life is informed by who God created him to be; namely, preparing people for the Messiah’s arrival. There is no personal gain in what he does. Indeed, he ultimately will surrender his life rather than...
Advent begins today. It is time to shake off weakness. If we have been lethargic in our blessed Lord’s service, run now to Him with love. Let Him make us strong and generous.
“As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging” (Luke 18:35). Holding fast to the actual miracle Jesus performs, the earliest commentators further explain that the blind man also symbolizes those who are unable to see eternal light. How easily we can fail to recognize God in our personal struggles along...
On this hallowed day in which we rightly remember our brave Veterans, an excerpt from “For the Fallen” (1914) by the venerable British poet Laurence Binyon. Solemn the drums thrill; Death august and royal Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres, There is music in the midst of desolation And a glory that shines upon our...
Learning is not as simple as acquiring knowledge. It is a regular practice of trying out new things and seeing the world in new ways. We best learn the Faith by daring to live it.
Death has taken from us those whom we love. Intentional disciples hold fast to the truth that there can be no real separation from the beloved ones who have died in the loving embrace of our Lord. The bond of charity forever unites us, enfolding in one embrace earth and heaven. Thus, our sadness is...
Today we joyfully celebrate the members of the Church who, having reached their heavenly home, are safe for all eternity, forever safe from the clutches of the foe and numbered everlastingly among God’s elect. Who are these splendid SAINTS? They are wonderfully varied, all having lived upon the earth as we have, who have known...
