What Makes a Prophet?
Many years ago, while in my late teens, I would stay up late and watch TV. Those late-night hours gave me the chance to watch “Saturday Night Live,” “The Late Show with David Letterman” and reruns of old episodes from…
Category Feast Day
Our Baptismal Vocation
Last Sunday I met with a group of catechists and faith formation volunteers who serve in various parishes in the Toronto area. Each of them shared their experiences of serving as a catechists. Their stories of teaching and sharing the faith…
Akathist to the Mother of God
A Prince of the Angels was sent from Heaven to say to the Theotokos, Rejoice! A Prince of the Angels was sent from Heaven to say to the Theotokos, Rejoice! A Prince of the Angels was sent to the Theotokos,…
A Holy Family for Us All
Much of what we believe about Jesus of Nazareth testifies to his uniqueness. Divine, Son of God, miracle worker, healer, wise teacher. But on the Feast of the Holy Family we are reminded of how much he held in common…
Following in the Footsteps of St. Stephen
If you’re like me at this time of year, when you hear the name of St. Stephen your mind likely turns first to Christmas carols. The first few verses of Good King Wenceslas probably pop into your head because, as…
The Grace, Mercy and Tender Love of God
“On this night, like a burst of brilliant light, there rings out the proclamation of the Apostle: “God’s grace has been revealed, and it has made salvation possible for the whole human race” (Tit 2:11). The grace which was revealed…
St. Charles Borromeo
Ambrose. Charles Borromeo. Alfredo Schuster. Giovanni Montini. Milan has witnessed some of the greatest bishops in Church history. Of its bishops, two have been elected pope. Dozens of saints have sat in the cathedra of that great and historic diocese.…
The Universal Call to be Saints
Dorothy Day, the renowned founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, once said in her later years: “Don’t call me a saint. I don’t want to be dismissed so easily.” Years after her death, she must be looking down from heaven,…
Bridge Builders
Last weekend I went on retreat with about 30 people from across Ontario. We were a diverse group, with women and men of all ages, vocations and very different views about God and faith. Despite our seemingly radical differences, we…
The Cross of Christ: A Light of Hope
Anyone even mildly aware of global events at the moment could be forgiven if they indulge in a bit of despair. Threatened by pestilence, war and environmental destruction, the world could use a large dose of hope. The Exaltation of…