PARTNERS

Would you be surprised to learn that for the first time in U.S. history, the vast majority of Americans don’t make adequate plans for the burial of their deceased loved ones?

For those who have recently lost a loved one, this time of year it seems there is nowhere to hide from our grief. Though we may busy ourselves with the many activities of the holiday season, at one point or another, we’ll come face-to-face with a memory that makes our loss feel fresh again.

When you’ve lost a loved one, memories can cause joy and pain in equal measure. During the holiday season, this can be especially true as we think back upon happy celebrations together while feeling the void the absence of someone dear leaves at this special time of year.

When you take a closer look at Día de Los Muertos, though, you’ll find that this holiday that seems centered around death is actually a celebration of life.

Mee Oh My’s creations are heavily influenced by her Catholic faith, her family, and her Kindergarten students. Follow along the journey and be prepared to say, Mee Oh My! What a lovely peg! As you witness these wooden people come to life.

In 1878, five intrepid Benedictine sisters traveled to the plains of North Dakota to establish St. Mary’s Academy, which served 21 boarders and 80 students in three tightly packed classrooms their first year.

Serving others has always been the focus of my life. Whether it’s taking care of my family, waiting tables as a single mother or volunteering in jail outreach programs, it’s where I have felt right at home.

After Easter Sunday, many people believe the commemoration is over until the next year. As Catholics, though, we know this most sacred holy day is just the beginning. Throughout Easter Season, which spans the 50 days from Easter Sunday through Pentecost, we spend our time in joyful celebration of Jesus’ gift of eternal life.

Lent is upon us. Every year, we are given the gift of this 40-day period to prepare ourselves to fully celebrate the Easter Mystery and grow stronger on our Christian journey.