When I worked in the Philippines we Franciscans used to refer to those who were nearing death as being “in the pre-departure area.” Perhaps it was our way of denying death or preparing ourselves to accept the fact that one of our Franciscan brothers was nearing it. If I recall, it was a retired priest...
I arrived late for Vespers on Friday, April 27. So, I was surprised to learn that Fr. Dan Havron, a priest, spiritual director and popular evangelist died late that afternoon. He was finishing a retreat for the Sisters of Charity at the College of Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati when he suffered a...
I’ve heard friends who have gotten married before me complain about how hard it is to find a modest, “altar-appropriate” wedding dress that’s still flattering and stylish. Now that I’m engaged and have casually started browsing wedding dresses, I’ve found this to be true for myself. I would...
How do you receive the Body of Christ? And I don’t just mean in your hand or on your tongue. If you’ve ever paid attention to people as they receive Communion, it seems less than half really understand what they’re doing.
In second grade, one of the things I have never forgotten was how to receive...
As I write this I am still grieving the death of my dad who passed away on April 18. I have thought much about God’s many mercies during a difficult time and I wanted to share a few with you all.
How great are the sacraments! We arranged for a priest to visit my dad before he died. Even though dad was...
The arrival of spring means beginning my gardening efforts in earnest. And none pleases me more than the renewed maintenance of the compost box.
This sturdy soldier stands guard over its precious cargo of high-grade compost — nectar for the gardens in their quest to grow and flourish. I’ve had...
