God is at work in the world, pope says at prayer service closing 2019
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — God sent His only begotten son into the world, where He continues to dwell in the hearts of men and women, “urging them to believe, to hope, despite everything, and to love by working for the good of all,” Pope Francis said.
Put the phone away and talk to each other, pope urges families
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Reciting the Angelus prayer Dec. 29, the feast of the Holy Family, Pope Francis entrusted to Mary, “Queen of the Family,” all the families of the world, “especially those experiencing suffering or distress, and we invoke upon them her maternal protection.”
Mary, a woman of patience
Picture an image of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Now picture her pregnant.
Walk in solidarity with refugees at Christmas
Sometimes overlooked in the idyllic images of the Christmas story is the brief, touching tale told in the Gospel of Matthew: the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt.
Handel’s ‘Messiah’: Is it just the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus?
The “Hallelujah” chorus from George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” is probably the most well-known classical piece of music written for choir. People love to hear it, and they love to sing it.
Classical painting reminds us of Christ’s light
The scene is one you might share from your own memory. It is the image of a mother, father and two children delighting in the sweet innocence of an infant.
St. Joseph — in the face of mystery
At one point in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults program each year I ask participants a seemingly simple question: “Is it possible to know God?” There is usually discussion and then concern that it is an impossible question to answer.
Set up a Nativity scene, pray there before Christmas, pope suggests
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Putting up a Nativity scene before Christmas is a reminder to stop and remember what Christmas is really about and to prepare one’s heart like a manger for the coming of Christ, Pope Francis said.
Martyrdom comes from following Christ without compromise, pope says
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — There always will be martyrs among Christians in the world, Pope Francis said.
Crèches tell the Nativity story using materials, symbols of local culture
DAYTON, Ohio (CNS) — Each culture, if not every home, has its own unique rendition of the Nativity.
