It’s a common misconception that St. Catherine of Siena was a Dominican nun. In fact, she was a Dominican tertiary – a laywoman who followed the Rule of St. Dominic. At age 21, she had a vision in which she experienced a “mystical marriage to Christ” and was instructed Read more…
A thirteenth-century Eucharistic miracle and a visionary nun have given us the feast of Corpus Christi and four cherished hymns written by St. Thomas Aquinas.
“Springtime of the Church” is a new Simply Holy podcast series that explores the unique and often little-known ways in which lay persons serve the Church as members of Third Orders, Oblates, Secular Institutes, Prelatures, Associations of the Christian Faithful, Ecclesial Movements, New Communities, Apostolates, and more. Listen to the premiere episode.
Violence, and then fire – an intriguing parallel between Pentecost and the George Floyd riots. But, unlike the violence and fire of an out-of-control plea for justice, the violence and fire of Pentecost were life-giving and transformative. They brought forth courageous men who went forth to spread the Good News to the ends of the earth. Many of them suffered martyrdom after having given witness to Christ. They were men and women of conviction who stood strong against hostility.
The Apostles and women – including Mary – gathered and prayed in the Upper Room for nine days from Ascension to Pentecost. That’s not unlike the time we’re in right now, as we prepare to move from the “new normal” of COVID19 lockdowns, shutdowns, and fear into the “newer normal” of going out into the world!
This is much like the time of the Apostles in the Upper Room from Ascension to Pentecost. It’s an inbetween time as we transition from COVID19 lockdowns, shutdowns, and stay home orders into a time of venturing out into the world to resume life after. Jesus promised us that all things work for good for those who love him. This pandemic, too, will work for good.
Being joyful doesn’t just happen. It’s a decision we make regardless of how tough things might be right now. Here’s how to change your attitude, refocus, and become a joyful person with God’s grace. Find out more in my latest episode of Simply Holy.