Spirituality
St. Thérèse of Lisieux: My guide through Advent
With its focus on simplicity, the "little way" of the beloved saint is a sure roadmap through this time of hopeful waiting, writes Susan Hines-Brigger.
Chesterton: Advent waiting is a gift
The experience of anticipation gives God room to refine and purify our desires, said G. K. Chesterton -- a message Shemaiah Gonzalez appreciates more than ever amid COVID-19.
Advent is a time recognize Christ is already here, said Merton
While waiting is a central theme of this liturgical season, Trappist monk Thomas Merton stressed the importance of seeing Jesus present in those "for whom there is no room" in this world.
Vigilance can rustle ‘sleepy Christians’ from apathy, pope says
Speaking on the First Sunday of Advent, Pope Francis said vigilance is an important aspect of Christian life because it prevents a person from becoming spiritually lazy, "indifferent to everything except what is comfortable for us,"
Advent resets the world’s ‘cheap price’ on human life
The recent murder of a pregnant neighbor and an array of humanitarian tragedies reveal how little the world values human dignity -- and how great a price Christ, coming as a child, was willing to pay to redeem it, writes Gina Christian.
Advent’s focus on ‘the end’ leads to the Way of life
The renewal of the new liturgical year of Advent calls for preparation for the coming of Jesus and his call to radical love on our pilgrim path, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.
Readings of the Holy Mass – First Sunday of Advent
Read, listen to or watch videos of the Mass readings with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
Readings of the Holy Mass – Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Read, listen to or watch videos of the Mass readings with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
A world in search of a King
Although most of us vote for -- rather than bow to -- our leaders, we've never needed a Sovereign Lord and his gentle yoke so desperately, writes Gina Christian.
Jesus is the once, future and eternal King
As the liturgical year closes, we renew our faith in Christ's triumph over sin and death, while looking forward to his return and the fullness of his kingdom, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.