After such a long, dangerous and grueling trip, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, a name which means “house of bread.” It is fitting that the Christ-Child born there is the bread of life who gives himself—his flesh and blood—as food for eternal life.
8 Ways To Grow Closer to Christ This Christmas
Although Christ most certainly loves you, he reserves his exquisite and indescribable gifts for those who prove their love for him. Here are some helpful spiritual exercises for proving your love for the Savior during the Christmas season.
Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Epiphany refers to the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles represented by the magi. In this Sunday’s gospel we are presented with a contrast between three figures: Jesus, Herod the Great, and the magi who journey into the night in search of not merely a sign from God, but rather the Christ Child himself, the “newborn king of the Jews” (Mt 2:2).
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton: Passion for God, Compassion for the Poor and a Zeal for Souls
Anti-Catholic sentiment remained quite virulent in America at the time; therefore Elizabeth knew the decision to become Catholic was sure to cause alienation from friends and family—a very serious consequence, since as a widow with children she was in dire need of financial support.
The Virgin Mary: Mother of The Church and Exemplar of The Journey
Blessed John Paul II wrote in Redemptoris Mater that the “Church journeys through time toward the consummation of the ages and goes to meet the Lord who comes.”