Monthly Archives: December 2006

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

Today's readings From the first time I came here to St. Raphael's, my favorite piece of artwork was this, the statue of the Holy Family. The figures looked so real and compassionate. I loved that Joseph has the scroll of … Continue reading

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The Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas

Today's readings | (St. Thomas Becket) The birth of Christ in our world ought to mean something to us. I mean, of course, it ought to mean something more than rich food and brightly wrapped gifts (although there's nothing wrong … Continue reading

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Feast of the Holy Innocents

Today’s readings | Today’s feast (more) On the face of it, this is just a horrible feast. The slaughter of many innocent children is a stark and frightening juxtaposition to the joy and glory of the Christmas Octave. The numbers … Continue reading

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The Nativity of the Lord

Today (tonight), we gather to celebrate that GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES. God promises us salvation. Even though we were lost, having wandered far away from our God, preferring to pursue our own bleak interests and passions, even though we had … Continue reading

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Whether Santa Claus Exists?

Feeling kinda scroogey? This will put it all in perspective for you. The ancient question of the existence of Santa Claus is settled by the Angelic Doctor, St. Thomas Aquinas. I had no idea he had addressed the topic. Then … Continue reading

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The Fourth Sunday of Advent

Today’s readings I don’t know about how it’s been for you, but this has been kind of a strange Advent for me. I suppose some of that is because, being newly ordained, I am taking a new role in all … Continue reading

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O Emmanuel

Today’s Readings O Emmanuel, king and lawgiver, desire of the nations, Savior of all people, come and set us free, Lord our God. The greatest title of our Lord, the reason for our celebration of Advent and Christmas, is today’s … Continue reading

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O Key of David

Today’s readings O Key of David, O royal Power of Israel controlling at your will the gate of heaven: come, break down the prison walls of death for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death; and lead … Continue reading

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O Sacred Lord

Today's readings During the last days of Advent, from the 17th of December until Christmas Eve, we celebrate a very holy and sacred time. During this time our expectation of the Lord's return increases and we turn up the heat, … Continue reading

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Third Sunday of Advent: Rejoice in God's Promise of Renewal

Today’s readings Today’s Scripture readings remind me of some kind of street festival with all of God’s faithful people shouting in praise. Just listen to some of the exclamations we hear today: “Gaudete! Rejoice!” This third Sunday of Advent has … Continue reading

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