Those who perceive in themselves this kind of divine spark which is the artistic vocation—as poet, writer, sculptor, architect, musician, actor and so on—feel at the same time the obligation not to waste this talent but to develop it, in order to put it at the service of their neighbour and of humanity as a whole. – Letter of St. Pope John Paul II to Artists To be a true artist is to be inspired…
Spring is so close! If you look closely, you’ll start to see plants poking up through the late-winter ground: crocuses, daffodil and tulip greens, and garden mums coming to life anew. Gardeners sometimes call this time of year the “greening of the gardens.” It’s exciting to see spring changes, like longer days, the warmer sun, birdsongs returning, and signs of growth all around us. Lent is a wonderful time for our own spiritual change and…
“We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage” (Mt 2:2). There’s been much debate on the origin of the Christmas Star. Some think it was a comet or supernova. Others think it was a conjunction of planets. Planetariums even have “Star of Bethlehem” shows to explore all the theories. Whatever the cosmic origin, the star was from God. He placed it in the sky for a purpose: to guide…
Experiencing the Holy Spirit is kind of like a visit from a butterfly. You can’t force a visit from a butterfly. You can’t send an invite and expect one to show up for tea next Tuesday afternoon. No, butterflies come and go with the breeze. Jesus describes the Holy Spirit in a similar way: “the wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it…
The Transfiguration of the Lord shows a powerful manifestation of the Holy Trinity. Peter, James, and John go with Jesus to Mt. Tabor to pray, and Jesus is transfigured: “his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white” (Lk 9:29). The glory of the Risen Christ was revealed. The veil of His humanity was lifted, showing His divine nature: “I am the light of the world” (Jn 8:12). The transfigured Jesus is light…
Every year on Ash Wednesday, you bow your head and are crowned with ashes. You are told, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Hear these words: “you are dust.” We are made from the most basic, humble, fleeting substance: the dirt of the earth. But God’s presence in our lives is what makes us into His image and likeness. His holy breath brings us life. “Then the Lord God formed…
“We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage” (Mt 2:2). There’s been much debate on the origin of the Christmas Star. Some think it was a comet or supernova. Others think it was a conjunction of planets. Planetariums even have “Star of Bethlehem” shows to explore all the theories. Whatever the cosmic origin, the star was from God. He placed it in the sky for a purpose: to guide…