Advent Reflections
Gaudete Sunday / Rejoice!
The third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday. The term is derived from the Latin opening words of the introit antiphon, “Rejoice (Gaudete) in the Lord always.” The […]
Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated on December 12, when people from across Mexico and other countries make a pilgrimage to see an image of Mary (Virgen […]
St. Lucia
The Feast of St. Lucia is a festival of lights celebrated in Sweden, Norway, and the Swedish-speaking areas of Finland on December 13 in the saint’s honor. St. Lucia was […]
Joy
Waiting isn’t often a joyful experience, but living in the true spirit of Advent can bring joy and lessen the anxiety frequently associated with having to wait for something hoped […]
Lessons & Carols
Lessons & Carols services in the Anglican tradition began in 1878 and was formalized as a Christmas service in 1880 by the Bishop of Truro, later Archbishop of Canterbury, Edward […]
The Blessed Virgin Mary
During Advent, we wait with Mary for the birth of her son. We share her anticipation and honor her as Christ’s mother. The traditional western liturgical calendar celebrates December 8 […]
St. Nicholas
While Advent is a time of waiting with hope and patience for the coming of the Christ Child, celebrating the life of St. Nicholas offers a festive opportunity to focus […]
The Prophets
The longings and the expectations of generations are revealed through the readings of the Old Testament prophets, particularly in the book of Isaiah. The prophets call for repentance and warn […]
Rorate Coeli
Known as The Advent Prose, Rorate Coeli are texts adapted from prophet Isaiah that speak to the longing of the prophets for the Messiah. “Drop down, ye heavens, from above, […]
Simbang Gabi
“Simbang Gabi,” a Filipino Christmas tradition, is a series of nine dawn masses that begin on December 16 and end with midnight mass on Christmas Eve in spiritual preparation for […]