In our family, the feast of the Epiphany has become a treasured tradition and way to end our Christmas season. At first, our observance of the Magi’s arrival consisted of a simple house blessing. We would snip off a branch…
It’s long been a truism that organized religion is beneficial to society through its volunteers, its schools, social programs and fostering of a population willing to sacrifice for the greater good. But what’s it worth in cold, hard cash? A…
Happy Mother’s Day! The day when we take moms of all stripes out for brunch, bring them flowers, spend time together… Well, that probably won’t be happening this year. And maybe that’s a good thing. As with other aspects of…
“Those who are in the ego cannot please God” I have always been uncomfortable with Paul’s reference to “the flesh” in contrast to “the Spirit,” as found in the Second Reading this week, Romans 8.8-11. Such dualistic thinking has been…
No matter where we have come from, we can all be Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. I have Irish roots myself, and was born into a family filled with Patricks and Patricias. In fact, I chose Patricia as my confirmation…
I sometimes wonder what went through Pope John XXIII’s mind before he announced the Second Vatican Council on January 25, 1959. What an amazing and bold step to take for a 77-year-old pope who was elected on the 12th ballot…
I’m not a grandparent, but I’ve spent a lot of time observing grandparents over the years – my own and other people’s. I’ve decided it’s a pretty good gig: you get lots of time and cuddles from your grandchildren when…
By Jim Dunn, Novalis author of “CrossWord Christian” and blog contributor St John the Baptist whose birthday we celebrate this month on June 24th, allows me great memories and pause for reflection. A born and raised Quebecer, I have always…
By Jim Dunn, Novalis Author of “CrossWord Christian” and Blog Contributor A recent tweet by one of my favourite spiritual authors, Marianne Williamson, got me thinking about the need for ongoing evangelization. She says, “During times when we’re morally obligated…
By Glen Argan, Interim Editor of Living with Christ Pope Francis has repeatedly shown himself to be a pontiff who does not pontificate. Rather, he is the world’s and the Church’s smiling spiritual guide to difficult endeavours such as family…