There was a couple that had been married for more than 50 years when one day, unexpectedly, the husband passed away. A few days after the funeral, their pastor visited the widow and found that even though she was grieving, she was filled with peace...
For a moment, imagine the Parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Lk 18:9-14) unfolding before us. The Pharisee is dressed to the nines. Accompanying his flowing garment is an extra-large phylactery, a leather case containing scripture...
On October 24, 1993, a large advertising agency launched one of the most influential advertising campaigns of all time. Its client was the California Milk Processor Board. With the use of just two words (Got Milk?) and images of numerous celebrities...
St. Theodore of Studite (759-826) wrote that he saw traces of the Holy Cross in several biblical events of the Old Testament: First, on the pile of wood that Abraham placed his son, Isaac.Second, on the wood of the Ark which Noah, his family, and...
The song, One Less Bell to Answer, was written in 1967 by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. In 1970, it was recorded and included on the debut album of the group The Fifth Dimension. That year, the catchy tune made its way to the #2 spot on the...
In 1971, the average U.S. income was $10,600. The cost of a new house was $25,250; however, if you were just starting out, you could rent and pay your landlord an average monthly sum of $150. And if you had an extra $3,579 to spare, a spanking new...
In the liturgical life of the Church, many days of the year are dedicated to concrete events and persons. Of course, there are many feasts for Jesus. But in addition, we remember Mary, the saints, and the “signature” moments in the...
One Sunday, a priest began preaching on the topic of love. But then, with great suddenness, he stopped, raised his arm, pointed, and exclaimed: Now there is love! And with all eyes now focused upon a young mother holding and tenderly...
The 19th century English novelist, William Thackeray, once noted that “Mother is the name for God on the lips and in the hearts of little children.” From the moment of our birth, mothers are “for us” in ways too numerous to...
One of my seminary professors began each class by reading verses 9-13 from St. John’s Gospel: “The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not...
Deacon Kurt Godfryd