In Renaissance paintings of the Nativity, the stable is often shown as ruined, a symbol of the world around us. Our own relationships with God are often broken, a gaping hole. Yet, as Bishop Hugh Gilbert, OSB, says in this homily, Christmas reveals the great love of God amidst the ruins, how He restores our broken relationship and make us His friends. The ruins can always be rebuilt, then, with the power of His love.
In Christmas, we find a tremendous hope: God is with us. Yet as we ponder this incredible truth on Christmas Day, we must remember that there are many living without hope, those who suffer persecution for their hope, or whose hopes are vested in things which can never satisfy. Pope Francis reflects on these themes in this Christmas blog.
On Christmas night, as darkness enfolded the world, an event happened that changed everything: a great light entered the world. In this Christmas meditation, Pope Francis reflects upon the love and faithfulness of God, who came to free us from the darkness and who still brightens our darkness today.
The many readings for the Christmas liturgies present a glorious mosaic. Throughout, there is a constant movement from God towards man and, in response, man towards God: a circle of direct communication flowing from the gift of divine communion. Read this reflection on the Christmas Mass readings and be reminded of the depth of meaning in this momentous day.
We know so little about St Joseph, we don't even have a record of what he said. Yet though his role was quiet and in the background, we can be sure that he played an important role as the foster-father of Jesus and the spouse of Our Lady. Here is what we know about his marriage to Mary, his role in the birth of Jesus and in the life of his Foster Son.
St Lucy was a Roman martyr who is mentioned in the Canon of the Mass and whose name means "light". Learn about her life, why Scandinavian countries have a particular devotion to her and customs associated with St Lucy's Day in this blog.
