CatholicPhilly.com’s reflection on Christmas from our partner, Catholic News Service, looks at the expression of the feast of the Nativity of Our Lord in the family and in the culture, and how it can lead to deeper discussions about living out an enfleshed faith in our lives today.
Also included are reviews of holiday-themed movies, a Christmas recipe and a reflection on St. Joseph.
How the Christmas story points beyond itself
The story of Christmas is treasured by Christians for much more than its charming tale of the birth of Jesus in a stable 2,000 years ago. It stirs thoughts of the incarnation of the Son of God and stimulates a conversation about incarnate faith.
Create some new Christmas family traditions
Part of the charm of Christmas is family holiday traditions that remind us of God’s loving hand in our lives. See four examples of Christmas family traditions that you can make your own.
A light shines in the darkness
The Christmas celebration centers around Mass. The first reading for the midnight Mass on Christmas Eve (Is 9:1-6) is one of the prophet Isaiah’s most beautiful and consoling as it sees the eternal light breaking through the darkness of our lives.
Films to watch at Christmastime
See our suggestions for five films to put you in the Christmas spirit. Why not leave a reply at the bottom of the reviews to suggest your own must-see holiday movies?
Christmas Eve in the Polish-American Catholic kitchen
In many homes, it wouldn’t be Christmas Eve without “wigilia,” or similar ethnic celebrations of special, once-a-year foods. See a recipe for one of those delicacies, “plecionka,” Polish braided potato bread.
The Nativity through the eyes of St. Joseph
A father considers the example of the “righteous man” who raised Jesus in the Holy Family. Joseph’s example of following the angel’s command to “Do not be afraid” can encourage today’s parents.
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