When you see holiness in a life well lived
Five years ago, on the eve of the feast of the Assumption, my grandfather passed from this life. A fresh college graduate, I had spent the previous few months living…
Uncovering the hidden blessings of the melancholic
There is a popular book, written by Art and Laraine Bennett, that every Catholic should read. In “The Temperament God Gave You,” the authors identify four human temperaments that have…
How to live for heaven here and now
Several years ago, I climbed the tower of the Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney stone. Though I could have survived without the experience, as I am not a fan…
Set goals with sainthood in mind
As we turn the calendar to a new year, the momentum of resolutions fills the air. People post reflection questions and set intentions. Others choose a word or a theme…
Preparing even the littlest ones for their vocations
As a mom of two littles, I see daily the many responsibilities parents have for their children. Dirty diapers, half-eaten plates and lots of little toy cars often make up…
When I’m stretched beyond my limits
Before my son was born and then for some time after while we were still in the hospital, my husband and I binged “Survivor.” On the show, contestants all have…
What it means to pray with your eyes closed
From the beginning of Christmas until the end of the Easter season, Catholics commemorate Jesus’ life in the liturgy. At Lent we enter a period of waiting, marked by daily…
Living ‘memento mori’ without falling into anxiety
Regardless of whether we have had to experience great loss in our lives, death is a reality that none of us, no matter how little we think about it, will…
Want to die like the saints? Here’s how
If you are looking for a book to acquaint — or even reacquaint — you with the saints, “How Saints Die: 100 Stories of Hope” (Ignatius Press, $17.95) is a…
Praying in the everyday like our Blessed Mother
I’ve had many different experiences with prayer as a Catholic woman. Sometimes, I’m blessed with moments of incredible intimacy with the Lord where conversation with him comes naturally. But honestly,…