With the great feast of Christmas only a few days away, and the narrative of Luke’s Gospel, complete with the angels, shepherds, and the Bethlehem manger awaiting us, the church turns for a moment to consider the story and role of St. Joseph.
Gaudete Sunday always startles me a little.
Liturgically, we are still in the “preparation” weeks of Advent — still waiting, still watching, still carrying what has not yet been resolved — and suddenly the church tells us to rejoice.
At Epiphany of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in Annandale parishioners recently venerated a rare relic of the fourth-century saint on the eve of his feast day.
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This year, Advent began Nov. 30, the start of the new liturgical year.
As Advent approaches, families bring out their boxes of Christmas decorations and set out the Advent wreath. But consider a new tradition this year, inspired by multicultural celebrations of feast days throughout Advent.
As Advent approaches and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season begins to make its way into our lives, here are five resources to help you prepare to welcome Jesus this Christmas.
Parishes around the diocese are making the holidays merry and bright for those in need with the help of Giving Trees. Over the last few
The notes ring out, sweet and clear as we light the second of two candles on our dining table Advent wreath. For Christians whose rhythms are matched to the liturgical calendar, it is a new year, bright with hope. Everything sparkles with promise: the promise of Christmas. It’s right around the corner.
Every year, as Advent and Christmas approach, I seem to have the same conversation with one of my students.
This year, the first Sunday of Advent is Dec. 1, a little later than some years. All four Sundays of December are Sundays in Advent with the fourth Sunday Dec. 22.
