As Advent begins and you put your Advent wreath in pride of place in your home, gather your household together to pray this blessing.

First published in 1891, Pope Leo XIII’s “Rerum Novarum” was the Church’s bold response to the upheaval caused by the Industrial Revolution.

It’s one of the paradoxes of Christianity that we find life in death, freedom in captivity, patience in action. For St John of the Cross, his time in captivity was a period of intense growth. John didn’t just endure and suffer but spent his time meditating on the things of Heaven. His life and action serve as a guide for us.

St Elizabeth of the Trinity, considered the fourth great Carmelite saint, saw in Mary the model of the contemplative, prayerful soul. Here is the beautiful exposition she wrote on the Mother of God. "There is one who knew this gift of God, one who did not lose a particle of it, one who was so pure and luminous that she seemed to be the Light itself."

Based on revelations to St Faustina for Trust in God and Mercy towards others, briefly explore the elements of this devotion: The Feast of Mercy, The Image of Merciful Jesus, The Chaplet, The Hour of Mercy and Spreading the devotion to Divine Mercy.

Reciting set prayers can take you a long way in building your relationship with God. But as the relationship deepens, it often becomes more still, more quiet. Discover the importance of silent prayer in this blog.