Stop for a moment and imagine you are in the middle of a typical day for yourself, whether that be at work or at home (or at home at work as many of us are experiencing.) Imagine the daily tasks you have, meetings to attend, children to teach, orders to…

“At that time Samuel was not familiar with the LORD, because the LORD had not revealed anything to him as yet. So Eli said to Samuel, “Go to sleep, and if you are called, reply, Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.” Most of us know and love the song…

Thoughts on Baptism I walk into the church for weekend Mass. There they are in the front pews. Two smiling young couples, some older faces and the baby, dressed in the long , white gown. A Baptism! Mass will be long—probably 15 minutes longer, I think. Ugh! I like to…

I recently read a book by a theologian who questioned many of the “truths” we’ve come to believe about the nativity. While I don’t believe everything he said, he did bring up some very interesting ideas. The word “inn” was used interchangeably with “guest room.” It was expected that Joseph,…

Belated Christmas greetings to all of you. I was asked to “pitch-hit” this weekend and share a few thoughts concerning this Gospel on the Feast of the Holy Family so I hope you don’t mind me invading your space today. He was the light of their lives….but that light darkened…

We read in today’s gospel about the angel Gabriel appearing to Mary to announce to her that God has chosen her to be the mother of Jesus. He says to her “Hail full of grace the Lord is with you.” You have found favor with God, do not be afraid.”…

In our first reading from the prophet Isaiah, the Israelites have just returned from 70 years of exile in Babylon; their Temple has been destroyed, they are dejected, broken and feeling all the negative effects associated with being in exile. It is within this background that Isaiah prophesied about the…

A voice of one crying out in the desert: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” As I read Mark’s recollection from Isaiah it got me thinking about how it can relate to us, today, in our own preparation for Christmas during this Advent season. While it…

May your help be with the man of your right hand, with the son of man whom you yourself made strong. Then we will no more withdraw from You; give us new life, and we will call upon your name. Advent – a season of anticipation for everyone! Children often…

Whenever I hear today’s Gospel, I squirm! It is basically the stepping stone to Eternal Life. We love and provide for our neighbor and in doing so, demonstrate our love for God. How do we accomplish all that Jesus is asking of us in today’s reading? First of all, we…