Introducing the Liturgical Home Liturgical Year Planner A simple way to organize your life around sacred time. Each year, as we prepare to walk through the seasons of the Church — Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Ordinary Time, I find myself looking for meaningful tools to help me stay rooted. Not just organized, but anchored. Not just productive, but prayerful. That’s why I created The Liturgical Home: Liturgical Year Planner —a softbound, 8.5 x 11” planner designed to help you live each day in rhythm with the Church calendar. Whether you’re managing a home, homeschooling, serving in ministry, or simply trying to stay connected to the sacred in the midst of the everyday, this planner was made for you. It’s not about doing more. It’s about remembering what matters most , and letting the year unfold with peace and purpose. What’s Inside: This planner gently guides you through the 2025–2026 liturgical year with: Monthly Calendars Each month includes key feast days, fasts, and liturgical seasons, already marked and ready to guide your planning. Seasonal Overviews Learn the meaning and themes of each liturgical season, with short reflections to ground your time in the Church year. Weekly Planning Pages Spacious weekly layouts help you track commitments while making room for what’s eternal, not just urgent. Monthly To-Do Lists Space to keep track of what needs to be done, without overwhelm. Liturgical Recipes One seasonal recipe each month, rooted in tradition, perfect for marking feast days with family or friends. Who It’s For Parents seeking to bring the Church year into their home life Teachers or homeschoolers planning around the liturgical seasons Individuals who want their time to reflect their faith Anyone longing for less hustle and more sacred rhythm You don’t need to know everything about the liturgical calendar to use this. You just need a desire to live more intentionally and a willingness to begin. Rooted in Rhythm, Not Rush This planner isn’t packed with productivity hacks. It won’t ask you to hustle your way through holy time. Instead, it offers space, space to write, space to reflect, and space to follow the slow, steady unfolding of the Church year. It’s a companion for the season ahead. One you can return to again and again, as you learn to mark your days not just by deadlines, but by meaning . Now Available The Liturgical Home Liturgical Year Planner (2025–2026) is available now. I hope it serves you as you walk through this next year with eyes lifted and heart rooted in Christ. Click here to order your copy !

Not Christmas. Not Yet. Before the lights, before the feasting, before the joy of Christmas morning,there is Advent. A quiet season. A sacred invitation.A time for waiting. It can be easy to skip past it. To reach straight for the decorations and the sparkle and the fullness of December. But the Church, in her wisdom, offers us something different, a beginning that begins in the dark. Advent isn’t a countdown to Christmas. It’s not just a festive lead-up to the big day. It’s a season all its own, and it invites us into something deeper. We light candles slowly, week by week.We pray ancient prayers of longing.We prepare Him room, not just in our homes, but in our hearts. This is a season for holy anticipation.Not because everything is already bright and joyful, but because we believe the Light is coming. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing gentle ways to mark the season at home: prayers and Scripture readings, simple traditions, recipes like St. Lucy’s Day buns, and small practices that help us live into Advent without rushing or pressure. My hope is that by the time Advent arrives, you’ll feel prepared, not in a busy or performative way, but in that deep, quiet sense of readiness that Advent calls for. So for now, hold off just a little longer on Christmas. Let your heart begin with waiting. It’s nearly time. AND if you’d like help walking through the season of Advent , I’ve created a guidebook with everything you need to celebrate the season in your home. In The Liturgical Home: Advent , is designed for individuals and families alike. This beautiful guide weaves together history, daily devotions, and beloved traditions and recipes from around the world, making it easy to honor Advent in meaningful ways at home. Inside, you’ll discover: Daily devotions and prayers to guide you through each day of Advent The stories behind cherished Advent traditions, like the Advent wreath, St. Nicholas Day, and more Traditional recipes and activities from different around the world, perfect for bringing family and friends together A deeper look into the significance of Advent, helping you connect with its purpose and beauty So this year, what if we did things a little differently? Let’s step off the fast track to December 25th and allow ourselves to journey through Advent with intention so that when Christmas finally arrives, we can enter it with open hearts and unhurried joy. Let’s reclaim the beauty of this special season and find, in its rhythm, a deeper and more meaningful way to celebrate.

Happy second day of November! The year grows quieter. Leaves fall, days shorten, and the Church invites us to look both backward and forward, with gratitude for those who’ve gone before us, and with watchful hope for what is to come. This is the month of saints, of vigils and prayers spoken softly in the candlelight. It is a time to reflect on eternity while tending to the present with faithfulness. We begin in the company of the Church Triumphant and end with hearts turning toward Advent, ready to wait again for Light to enter the world. I’m so grateful to journey through it with you! Here’s an overview with helpful links: November 1st - All Saints’ Day November 23rd - Christ the King Sunday November 30th - The First Sunday of Advent Current Season: Ordinary Time During the month of November, we wrap up our journey through the season of Ordinary Time. Here is a helpful article overviewing the season: The Season of Ordinary Time And check out my latest guidebook, The Liturgical Home: Ordinary Time . It gives you everything you need to know to celebrate the season of Ordinary Time in your home. The Next Season: Advent On the last Sunday of November, we begin the season of Advent. Here is a helpful article overviewing the season: The Season of Advent And check out my guidebook, The Liturgical Home: Advent . It gives you everything you need to know to celebrate the season of Ordinary Time in your home. November 1st - All Saints’ Day On All Saints’ Day, we remember the great cloud of witnesses, those known and unknown, who have gone before us in faith. These are the ones who loved Christ more than comfort, who followed Him through joy and suffering, and whose lives now shine like stars in the firmament of the Church. Today, we give thanks for their example and their ongoing presence with us in the communion of saints. This feast reminds us that sainthood is not about perfection, but about perseverance. It calls us to walk faithfully in our time as they did in theirs, ordinary people transformed by grace, and made radiant by love. The Origins of Halloweeen and All Saints’ Day November 23rd - Christ the King Sunday On Christ the King Sunday, we come to the end of the liturgical year with a bold confession: Christ reigns. Not as the world rules, but with a crown of thorns and a throne shaped like a cross. His kingdom is one of mercy, justice, and peace, and it calls us to live not for power or recognition, but for love. This feast draws our eyes to the eternal King who holds all things together and invites us to surrender every part of our lives to His rule. As we prepare to begin again with Advent, we pause to remember: Christ is Lord, yesterday, today, and forever. Christ the King Sunday Christ the King Pond Cake November 30th - The First Sunday of Advent On the First Sunday of Advent, we begin again. The Church year opens not with fanfare, but with waiting, with candles lit in the quiet, hearts leaning forward in hope. This is a season of watching and preparing, of learning to live in the tension between what is and what will be. We remember that Christ has come, Christ will come again, and even now, He comes to us in hidden, ordinary ways. As we light the first candle, may we make room, slowly, intentionally, for the Light that is coming into the world. Preparing Your Heart and Home For Advent Discover the Beauty of Advent Music Celebrating Advent With an Advent Wreath Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate every special day this month, including the history, recipes, and traditions! Quick reminder - we are quickly approaching the end of the Christian liturgical year. Make sure you’re ready for the new liturgical year with the 2025-2026 Liturgical Home wall calendar!

As we approach October 28, the Church prepares to honor St. Simon and St. Jude , two apostles often remembered together, and not by accident. Though their stories in Scripture are brief, tradition offers us a powerful portrait of faith, friendship, and joint mission. These two men, among the original Twelve, are celebrated on the same day because of early Christian writings that link their missionary journey, and ultimately, their martyrdom, in Persia. Their feast invites us to reflect not only on their individual witness but also on the way God often works through partnerships. St. Simon the Zealot Simon is distinguished in the Gospels as “the Zealot,” a title likely indicating his fervor for God, and possibly a connection to the Jewish Zealot movement that resisted Roman rule. While we know little about his life beyond this, tradition fills in what Scripture leaves unsaid. He’s often depicted in sacred art holding a saw, based on the account of his martyrdom, believed to have been sawn in half for preaching the Gospel. St. Jude (Thaddeus) Not to be confused with Judas Iscariot, St. Jude, also called Thaddeus, was the brother of James the Less and a cousin of Jesus. In John 14:22, Jude asks Jesus why He would reveal Himself only to the disciples and not the world, giving us a glimpse into his reflective spirit. Jude is also the author of the Epistle of Jude , a short but striking letter full of vivid imagery and warnings against false teaching. It includes fascinating references to non-canonical texts, like the Book of Enoch and the mysterious dispute between Michael the Archangel and Satan over Moses’ body. And yet, the letter ends with one of the most beautiful doxologies in Scripture, a confident praise of God’s power and faithfulness. The Legend of King Abgar & the Image of Edessa One of the most well-loved traditions about St. Jude tells of King Abgar V of Edessa , who suffered from leprosy and wrote to Jesus asking for healing. Jesus, unable to travel due to His mission in Jerusalem, promised to send a disciple after His Ascension. According to legend, Jesus pressed His face to a cloth, leaving a miraculous image behind, a cloth that Jude later brought to King Abgar. Upon receiving it, the king was healed, and he, along with many in his city, converted to Christianity. This cloth, known as the Image of Edessa or the Mandylion , became one of the most revered relics in early Christianity and may have even influenced devotion to the Shroud of Turin . This is why Jude is often shown holding a small image of Christ’s face. The Acts of St. Simon and St. Jude Apocryphal writings from the early Church also preserve a dramatic account of their shared missionary work in Persia . In these texts, Simon and Jude boldly preach the Gospel in Babylon, confronting two powerful magicians who try to resist them with enchantments. But through miracles worked in the name of Christ, the apostles prevail. Conversions follow, churches are planted, and eventually, both men give their lives in witness to the Gospel. Simon is said to have been sawn in half; Jude, beaten to death with a club. Their relics are honored today in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome , a quiet testimony to their partnership and courage. Ideas for Celebrating at Home Because their feast falls just days before All Saints and All Souls , it’s the perfect moment to begin leaning into the end-of-October liturgical shift. Here are a few ways to mark the day: ✶ Read the Epistle of Jude Even just once a year, this short letter reminds us of the early Church’s urgency and confidence in Christ. Its final verses (24–25) are beautiful for memorization or prayer. ✶ Locate Ancient Persia on a Map Show your children (or yourself!) the distance between Israel and the region historically known as Persia, now mostly Iran. Imagine what it took to carry the Gospel that far in the first century. ✶ Make Soul Cakes Traditionally baked leading up to All Hallows’ Eve and All Saints Day , these simple spiced cakes were given to the poor or eaten in remembrance of the faithful departed. Their preparation on this feast day is a gentle way to begin observing the coming days with intention. Recipe at the end of the article. A Feast of Holy Partnership As we celebrate St. Simon and St. Jude , we remember that God often sends us not alone, but together. Their joint witness invites us to consider our own relationships and collaborations, especially in ministry, evangelism, or the quiet faithfulness of daily life. May these apostles strengthen our courage, deepen our love for the Gospel, and teach us what it means to serve together in Christ’s name. the recipe - Soul Cakes ¾ cup butter, room temperature 1 cup white granulated sugar 3 egg yolks medium size 3 ¾ cups flour 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ginger 1/2 teaspoon cloves 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg. ½ cup raisins 6-7 Tablespoons milk 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting (optional) Preheat the oven to 350 F. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl. Add the egg yolks and mix again. Sift the flour and spices into the butter/sugar mixture. Gradually add the milk, combining with a spatula until the dough comes together. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough with your hands until well combined. Add half the raisins, and knead them in the dough. Add the rest of the raisins while kneading the dough. Roll the dough with a rolling pin about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the cakes into round shapes using a round cookie cutter. Transfer the cakes to a baking tray, layered with parchment paper. Leave space between the cakes. Cut a cross on each cake. Bake 15-20 minutes until golden. Dust the cakes with powdered sugar.

On October 23 , the Church celebrates the Feast of St. James of Jerusalem , also known as James the Just or James, the Brother of the Lord . St. James was a remarkable leader in the early Church, a man of deep prayer, wisdom, and steadfast faith. His legacy as bishop, teacher, and martyr continues to guide Christians today. As we honor his life, we’re invited to reflect on the timeless words of the Epistle of James , a letter filled with practical wisdom and a call to live our faith through love, humility, and good works. The Man Behind the Name According to Eusebius of Caesarea , often called the father of church history, St. James came to faith after the risen Christ appeared to him. This post-resurrection encounter changed everything. From there, Scripture and tradition paint a picture of a man wholly devoted to Christ and to the Church. In Acts 1:14 , we find James among the disciples in the upper room, praying when the Holy Spirit descends at Pentecost. In 1 Corinthians 15:7–8 , Paul records that the risen Jesus appeared to James before appearing to the apostles and to Paul himself. In Galatians , Paul tells us that three years after his conversion, he returned to Jerusalem to meet with Peter and saw “no other apostle except James.” (Gal. 1:19) This encounter marks the beginning of James’s leadership role in the early Church. A Pillar of the Church Years later, Paul would return to Jerusalem and meet again with the Church’s leaders. In Galatians 2:9 , he calls James, Peter, and John the “pillars of the Church.” He recalls how they extended to him and Barnabas “the right hand of fellowship,” affirming the grace God had given them and commissioning Paul to continue his ministry among the Gentiles. This meeting reminds us that even in its earliest days, the Church was a community of collaboration and discernment, guided by the Holy Spirit and rooted in mutual encouragement. The Council of Jerusalem One of the defining moments of James’s ministry came during the Council of Jerusalem ( Acts 15 ), when the Church faced a major question: Must Gentile converts follow the full Mosaic law to be saved? After listening to the testimony of Peter, Paul, and Barnabas, James stood and spoke with wisdom and clarity. Citing Scripture, he affirmed that God Himself was calling the Gentiles to faith and that they should not be burdened with the full yoke of the law. His judgment shaped the Church’s identity as a community open to all nations. Through James’s leadership, the Church recognized that salvation was through grace , not heritage or law. Early Church historians record that James was the first bishop of Jerusalem , known for his holiness, humility, and righteousness. He lived a life of prayer and service amid famine, persecution, and hardship. A Martyr’s Death James’s faithfulness eventually cost him his life. According to the historian Josephus , during a gap in Roman governance, the high priest Ananus seized the moment to act against James. In AD 62 (or possibly 69) , James was brought before the Jewish council and accused of breaking the law. He and several companions were condemned and stoned to death . His martyrdom was a devastating loss for the early Church. Yet his witness, his quiet courage, his faith in Christ even unto death, became a foundation for generations to come. “The Brother of the Lord” The title “James, the Brother of the Lord” has stirred centuries of conversation and debate. In the ancient world, the word “brother” was often used broadly, it could mean cousin, kin, or close relation. Because of this linguistic flexibility, Christian traditions have understood the relationship between Jesus and James in different ways. Some, including the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches, interpret “brother” as referring to a close relative or cousin rather than a biological sibling. Others, particularly in Protestant traditions, view James as a half-brother of Jesus , a son of Mary and Joseph born after Jesus. What all traditions share, however, is the recognition that James’s faith was profound, that he knew Jesus deeply, both as teacher and as Lord. The Epistle of James Tradition attributes the Epistle of James to this same James of Jerusalem. Unlike the letters of Paul, which often deal with doctrine or church structure, James’s letter focuses on practical holiness , what faith looks like when it takes root in everyday life. His call is simple yet searching: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) This epistle offers wisdom for every generation: patience in trials, humility in speech, justice in action, and compassion for the poor. It challenges us to live an active, embodied faith that reveals the character of Christ. Symbols and Legacy In art and iconography, St. James of Jerusalem is often depicted holding a book or scroll , representing his authorship of the Epistle of James and his role as a teacher of the Church. He is the patron saint of Jerusalem , and the Cathedral of St. James , located in the Armenian Quarter of the Old City, is believed to stand near his burial site. Built during the 12th century on the ruins of a 5th-century church, it remains one of the few Crusader-era cathedrals to survive nearly intact. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. James If you’d like to honor this feast at home, here are a few simple and meaningful ways to do so: Read the Epistle of James. It’s short, just five chapters, but filled with wisdom. Take time to reflect on how it calls you to live your faith this week. Write a Letter. Since St. James gave us one of the New Testament’s letters, write your own. Send a note of encouragement or gratitude to someone who has shaped your faith. Bake Lavash. Explore Armenian culture and cuisine by making lavash , a traditional flatbread. It connects beautifully to the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem, where the Cathedral of St. James still stands. the recipe - Lavash (Armenian Flat Bread) First dough: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup plus a scant 1 Tablespoon lukewarm water ¼ teaspoon instant yeast Second dough: 1 cup lukewarm water 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil 2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 cups plus 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting Instructions First dough: Mix the flour, water, and yeast in a bowl using a rubber spatula until it forms a thick paste. Scrape the paste into a small, lightly oiled container, cover it, and let it sit out for 1½ to 2 hours. First, the dough should have doubled in volume. Second dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the first dough, water, oil, and salt. Squish the first dough with your hands to break it up in the water. Add 1 cup of the flour and using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed until the dough looks like pancake batter. Next, add the remaining flour and mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough sit for 20 minutes. Remove the towel, attach the dough hook to the stand mixer, and mix the dough on medium speed until the dough releases from the sides of the bowl without sticking and feels smooth to the touch, about 4 minutes. Lightly grease an 8-cup bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 3 hours or until doubled in volume. Dust a clean surface lightly with flour and place the dough on top. Cut the dough into 8 pieces. Cup the palm of your hand over one portion at a time and move your hand in a circle. The friction from the counter will help form the dough into a ball. Lightly oil a rimmed tray and place the dough on the tray, don’t let dough balls touch. Cover with plastic wrap lightly coated with cooking spray or oil. Let rest for 1 hour. Dust a clean surface lightly with flour. Lightly flour a rolling pin and roll each ball of dough into a thin rectangle about 8×12 inches. Work in batches and keep the dough covered in between. Place a large cast-iron pan (or griddle over two burners) over medium-high heat for a few minutes or until a sprinkle of water instantly evaporates. Place the dough in the pan or over the griddle. Cook for 1 minute or until puffed slightly and blistered. Turn over using tongs to cook the other side, no more than 30 seconds. For extra browning, flip it over for 30 more seconds. Transfer the lavash to a baking sheet and cover with a dry kitchen towel while you cook the rest of the dough. Recipe courtesy of Silk Road Recipies . Enjoy! These flatbreads are a simple, fun way to celebrate the Feast of St. James of Jerusalem. As we honor this special man, may this tradition remind us of the goodness of God and the richness of our faith.

The Feast of St. Luke on October 18th invites Christians around the world to pause and honor one of the most beloved figures in the early Church, Luke the Evangelist, the Gospel writer, the faithful companion of Paul, and the writer who gifted us both the Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles . His legacy isn’t just written into the Christian calendar, it’s etched into the lives of those who love and treasure the Scriptures. Who Was St. Luke? Luke was a physician from Antioch in Syria , highly educated, possibly a Greek convert, and, according to tradition, also an artist and man of letters. He wasn’t one of the original twelve disciples, but he was a close companion of St. Paul , traveling with him on missionary journeys and staying with him in prison. Near the end of Paul’s life, he writes with deep tenderness: “Only Luke is with me.” — 2 Timothy 4:11 Luke is one of the Four Evangelists , credited with writing both the Gospel that bears his name and the Book of Acts. He opens his Gospel by saying that he “carefully investigated everything from the beginning,” gathering eyewitness accounts to write “an orderly account” (Luke 1:1–4). Was St. Luke the First Iconographer? Church tradition holds that St. Luke was the first iconographer . He’s said to have painted several images of the Virgin Mary and Christ Child , and possibly even icons of St. Peter and St. Paul . Some churches around the world claim to house one of his original icons. The St. Thomas Christians in India preserve a tradition that one of the icons of the Theotokos, brought by St. Thomas, was originally painted by St. Luke. Because of this association with sacred art, medieval painters’ guilds across Europe were known as the Guilds of St. Luke . Why Is He Symbolized by an Ox? In Christian iconography, Luke is traditionally represented by a winged ox , one of the four living creatures described in Ezekiel 1 and Revelation. Each Gospel writer is associated with one of these figures. The ox, a sacrificial animal , fits Luke’s Gospel beautifully. His Gospel begins with the priest Zechariah and is filled with themes of sacrifice, mercy, and Christ’s compassion for the lowly and outcast. Unique Aspects of the Gospel of Luke Luke’s Gospel is often described as the most compassionate and universal . While sharing many stories found in Matthew and Mark, it also includes: The most detailed account of Jesus’ early life: Zechariah and Elizabeth, the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity, Simeon and Anna, and Jesus as a boy in the temple. The Song of Mary (Magnificat) , the Song of Zechariah (Benedictus) , and the Song of Simeon (Nunc dimittis) , all woven into our Anglican liturgies at Morning and Evening Prayer. 18 parables and 6 miracles unique to Luke, including the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son . A strong focus on women, the poor, the sick, and social outcasts , making it deeply pastoral and inclusive. Luke wasn’t just recording events, he was faithfully preserving the story of Jesus for the Church, showing us again and again that Christ came to seek and save the lost, to welcome the outsider, and to heal the brokenhearted. Acts: The Sequel Luke’s writing continues in the Acts of the Apostles , tracing the birth of the Church , the coming of the Holy Spirit , and the spread of the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire. His careful attention to detail gives us vivid accounts of Pentecost, early Christian community life, and the missionary journeys of Paul. Throughout Acts, Luke shows us that the same Spirit who descended on Jesus now empowers His followers to carry the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Luke If you’d like to mark the Feast of St. Luke at home, here are a few simple, creative, and meaningful ways to enter into the day: Read Scripture and Sing the Songs Read or pray the Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55) or Nunc dimittis (Luke 2:29–32). These songs are part of our Morning and Evening Prayer , and they first appear in Luke’s Gospel. Paint or Create Since Luke is said to have been a painter, make or color an image of Mary and Jesus . Kids can paint with icons in mind, or just create art inspired by the day. Watch and Learn Watch the Luke/Acts video series by The Bible Project (free and accessible for all ages). A great way to get an overview of the big picture Luke was telling. Eat Something Pumpkin! In Venice, Italy , they say pumpkins go stale after St. Luke’s Day.So today’s the day to eat your pumpkin pie, soup, bread, or muffins! Try Something with Sour Cream In Scotland , St. Luke’s Day was marked by eating sour cakes —fermented oatcakes traditionally served with sour cream . Enjoy St. Luke’s Little Summer St. Luke is said to have gifted us a few final golden days before winter—a short stretch of warm weather in mid-October known as “St. Luke’s Little Summer.” Step outside. Soak it in. Serve Beef for Dinner Since Luke’s symbol is the ox , many families serve beef dishes in his honor. We’re making my grandmother’s pot roast for dinner tonight—it’s a family favorite and a lovely nod to tradition. Learn About the Fiera di San Luca In Impruneta, Italy , St. Luke is honored with a thousand-year-old livestock fair , the Fiera di San Luca . It originally marked the end of mountain pasturing and the return of shepherds to the valley for the winter, an echo of seasonal change and provision. A Final Word St. Luke gives us so much: not just a Gospel and a sequel, but a lens of compassion , an emphasis on God’s universal mercy , and a love for those often overlooked. This feast is a beautiful moment to pause, remember his gifts, and live into his legacy with joy and gratitude. the recipe - Pumpkin Muffins for the Feast of St. Luke 1 cup canned pumpkin puree 2 cups granulated sugar 1 cup light brown sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 4 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease the muffin pans. Whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil in a large bowl until well combined. Add the canned pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated. In a separate medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredient mixture. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding over-mixing. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared muffin pans.

It’s only the beginning of October, but I can’t help mentioning that Halloween is just around the corner! I’m bringing it up early because Halloween is one of the most misunderstood Christian feast days, and this year, I’d love to help you see it in a new light before it arrives. Now, I know that the coming of Halloween is not news to any of you! The stores have been filled with animatronic zombies and ghouls for weeks, and nowhere is Halloween on fuller display than in neighborhood yards. Driving through my mom’s neighborhood yesterday, every yard was already decorated. I passed by werewolf dogs and ghosts hanging from trees. There was even a yard with two life-size skeletons dressed like the roaring twenties, with alcoholic beverages raised in a toast. It was nuts! It’s hard not to believe that Halloween is an embrace of the pagan, the occult, or the demonic. Sadly, many of us don’t know the real meaning of Halloween, especially Christians. They don’t know that the celebration of Halloween is really a beautiful Christian celebration that’s been hijacked by our culture. Halloween, or All Hallows’ Eve, is actually the eve of the Feast of All Hallows’ Day, another name for All Saints' Day, a beautiful day when we lovingly remember the martyrs and saints who faithfully served the Lord and have passed away. All Hallows’ Eve on October 31st and All Saints’ Day on November 1st are principal feast days in the Christian calendar. They provide a dedicated time to call to memory those saints who have led the way before us. We recognize those saints who are known, meaning those who the Church has officially recognized for their exemplary lives, faith, and contributions to Christianity. They might be early Christian martyrs, theologians, missionaries, or others who’ve led lives of significant spiritual meaning and impact. We also recognize those saints who are unknown. This refers to the countless believers throughout history who’ve lived faithfully but haven’t been officially recognized or canonized as saints. The belief here is that many people live saintly lives without gaining widespread recognition or having a significant public impact, but their faith and good works are known to God. We honor the example of all of their lives and deaths and rejoice in the continued communion with them through membership and participation in the body of Christ. The History All Saints’ Day’s origins and establishment as a significant Christian feast day are rooted in early Christian traditions and practices of honoring martyrs and saints. In the earliest days of Christianity, it was common to commemorate the anniversary of a martyr’s death for Christ at the place of their martyrdom. As the number of recognized martyrs increased, especially during the intense periods of Roman persecution, it became challenging to assign a separate day for each martyr. Different Christian communities began to establish a common day on which to honor all martyrs. The foundation for a collective celebration can be seen as early as the 4th century, when the Feast of All Martyrs was celebrated in the Eastern Church. In the West in 609 or 610 AD, Pope Boniface IV consecrated the Pantheon in Rome to the Blessed Virgin and all the martyrs. This established an annual feast in Rome on May 1st. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III moved the date to November 1 and broadened the festival to include all saints as well as all martyrs. Finally, in 837 AD, Pope Gregory IV extended the celebration of the feast day from Rome to the entire western church. Traditionally, on the eve of All Saints’ Day or All Hallows’ Eve, Christians attended a vigil where worshippers prepared their hearts with prayers and fasting. They spent the night thinking about and offering thanks to those who had died in faithful service to the Lord and praying that they might be more like them. The church service was known as the Vigil of All Hallows or the Vigil of All Saints. After the service, festivities would begin with food and drink and visits to the graveyard where flowers and candles were placed at the graves. They also went “souling”, which evolved into our modern-day trick-or-treating. Children and the poor went about, visiting homes, offering prayers, and in return receiving soul cakes, small, sweet treats infused with spices. In Portugal, a variation of this tradition continues today. Children go door to door, singing songs and asking for a special bread called Pão-por-Deus or “Bread for God.” The Communion of Saints A core component of All Saints’ Day is the “communion of saints.” This doctrine underscores the unity of all believers, living and deceased, in the body of Christ. It reminds us that our connection with fellow Christians doesn’t end with death; it continues in God’s holy presence. In Hebrews 11 and 12, St. Paul introduces us to this communion of saints when he reminds us of those who went before us and who faithfully followed God. He encourages us that since we are surrounded by such a “great cloud of witnesses,” we should throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles us, and that we should run with perseverance the race marked out for us. We believe that the communion of saints is the spiritual union of all of the members of the Church, both the living, the Church Militant, and those who have died in the faith of Christ, the Church Triumphant. We believe that we are knit together with the saints in the mystical body of Christ. We all worship God together, and as we say every Sunday during Holy Eucharist, we join our voices “with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven.” We do not pray to the saints or praise the saints; we join with them in the worship of God. This idea of the “communion of saints” is so pivotal to our faith that it is a part of the Apostles’ Creed. Samhain A common myth in modern times is that Halloween is based on a pagan festival known as Samhain. The story goes that the Church Christianized a popular Celtic festival that celebrated the dead. The earliest documentary sources available indicate that Samhain, just like countless harvest festivals around the world, was a harvest festival with no particular ritual connections to the dead. A direct link between the two is largely speculative and not substantiated by historical records. Halloween, or All Hallows’ Eve, originates primarily from Christian traditions marking the eve of All Saints’ Day. Its practices and customs, including attending church services, lighting candles on the graves of the holy, and the later traditions of trick-or-treating, have clear roots in Christian liturgical observances. Scholarly research into the origins of Halloween often points to its emergence independently within the Christian tradition, rather than as an adaptation or continuation of pagan Samhain rituals. Ways to Celebrate All Hallows’ Eve and All Saints’ Day Read Hebrews 11:1–12:2 and Revelation 7:9-12. Go trick-or-treating or attend a church’s Halloween celebration. Go and visit the grave of a loved one . All around the world, Christians visit the graves of loved ones on All Saints’ Day. They bring flowers, clean up the spaces, and spend time reminiscing about and offering thanks to God for the loved ones. If you are unable to visit the grave of a loved one, light a candle in honor in their honor. Have everyone share what they loved about them and offer up a prayer of thanksgiving for them. Bring flowers to the grave or put some on your porch or in your home in honor of the deceased. Chrysanthemums are the traditional flower in Belgium and France; marigolds are the traditional flowers in Mexico. Make Soul Cakes. Christians all around the world have a special bread or sweet that they make for All Saints’ Day. In England, they make Soul Cakes, in Portugal, they make Pão-por-Deus (Bread for God), in Mexico, they make Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead), and in France, they call it Pain des Morts (Bread of the Dead). This bread is often shaped like a coffin or a cross. In Spain, they make a sweet called Huesos de Santo (Saint’s Bones). In Austria, they make Allerheiligenstriezel , a sweet braided bread that is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Make Ossa dei Morti or Bones of the Dead . In Italy, these almond-flavored, bone-shaped cookies are made to honor the deceased and are often enjoyed with a glass of wine. the recipe - Ossa dei Morti or Bones of the Dead Cookies 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 egg 2 1/2 ounces ground almonds 1/2 cup (4 ounces) all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon baking powder Pinch of salt Powdered sugar Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Then line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Whisk together the sugar, extract, and egg in a medium-sized bowl until blended. Stir in the almonds, baking powder, flour, and salt, and stir just until combined. Dump the mixture onto a lightly floured hard surface and gently knead for a minute or two with your hands until smooth. (Dough will be sticky) Divide the dough into three pieces, and roll each into a 1-inch log. Cut the log into 1 1/2-inch to 2-inch pieces, then use your fingers to roll each piece into ropes about 4 inches long. Place the cookies 2 to 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cookies begin to brown and the tops feel set when touched with your fingertips. Cool completely, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!

On October 4th, the Church celebrates the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved saints in all of Christian history. His life continues to echo through the centuries, not only for his radical commitment to Christ, but also for his tender love of creation, his humility, and his deep care for the poor and forgotten. His feast invites us to consider what it means to live simply, love deeply, and follow Jesus with our whole hearts. The Early Life of St. Francis Francis was born in 1181 in Assisi, Italy, to a wealthy family. His father was a prosperous silk merchant, and his mother was a French noblewoman. Francis enjoyed the privileges of wealth and was known for his charm, wit, and love of pleasure. He was captivated by the ideals of knighthood and often dreamed of glory and adventure. But beneath the surface, Francis began to feel an ache—an inner discontent with the riches and revelry that surrounded him. One day, while selling goods in the marketplace, he encountered a beggar. Moved by compassion, Francis gave him all the money he had. His friends laughed, and his father was furious—but something had shifted in Francis’s heart. A few years later, during a military expedition against Perugia, Francis was captured and held in prison for nearly a year. It was during this time of illness and isolation that his soul began to turn more deeply toward God. When he was finally released, he returned to his old life for a time, but the emptiness remained. In 1205, while preparing for another military campaign, Francis had a vision that changed everything. He abandoned his plans and returned home, ready to follow a different path. “Repair My Church” The turning point came as Francis knelt in prayer before the crucifix in the crumbling chapel of San Damiano. There, he heard the voice of Christ: “Francis, go and repair my church, which, as you see, is falling into ruins.” Taking the words literally, Francis sold some of his father’s goods to fund repairs, but the local priest refused the money. In response, Francis renounced his inheritance altogether. In a dramatic moment before the bishop and the townspeople, he stripped off his fine clothes and declared that he was no longer the son of Pietro di Bernardone, but a servant of God alone. From then on, Francis embraced a life of poverty, devoting himself to rebuilding broken chapels, serving lepers, and seeking God in solitude and simplicity. The Founding of the Franciscans and the Poor Clares As Francis lived out this new way of life, others began to follow. In 1209, he traveled with a small band of companions to Rome to seek approval for a new religious order. Pope Innocent III was hesitant, until he dreamed of a poor man holding up the Church itself. Moved by the vision, he gave Francis his blessing. Thus began the Order of Friars Minor , commonly known as the Franciscans. The brothers preached, served, and traveled with nothing, relying on the generosity of others and living in joyful poverty. They sought not only to speak the Gospel but to embody it, echoing Christ in word and deed. In 1212, Francis’s influence reached a young noblewoman named Clare of Assisi. Inspired by his example, she left behind her family’s wealth to follow Christ in poverty. With Francis’s support, she founded the Order of Poor Ladies , later known as the Poor Clares , a contemplative community of women committed to prayer, simplicity, and service. Together, the Franciscans and the Poor Clares lived out a radical dependence on God, marked by humility, peace, and joy. Francis and Creation One of the most enduring aspects of St. Francis’s legacy is his profound love for the natural world. He saw all creation as a mirror of God’s glory and addressed even the sun, moon, and animals as “brother” and “sister.” His famous prayer, the Canticle of the Sun , captures this spirit beautifully. Written in the Umbrian dialect toward the end of his life, the Canticle of the Creatures is a hymn of praise to God for the sun, moon, wind, fire, water, and earth. It reflects Francis’s understanding that creation itself is sacred, an expression of the Creator’s goodness and care. This poetic prayer was later adapted into the hymn All Creatures of Our God and King by Anglican priest William Henry Draper. Many stories and legends have grown around Francis’s love for animals, like the tale of the wolf of Gubbio, who stopped terrorizing a village after Francis spoke gently to him, or the time he preached to a flock of birds who seemed to listen in rapt attention. These stories, whether historical or symbolic, remind us of the harmony and peace we are called to cultivate in our relationship with the created world. A Living Nativity Francis’s devotion to the humanity and humility of Christ also led to one of the Church’s most beloved traditions: the nativity scene. In 1223, seeking to help people enter more fully into the mystery of Christ’s birth, Francis created the first live nativity in a cave near Greccio. With real animals and villagers gathered around, he invited the faithful to gaze upon the Christ Child not in grandeur, but in poverty and simplicity. That tradition has since traveled the world, reminding generations of the quiet miracle of Christmas. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Francis If you’d like to mark the feast of St. Francis at home or in your parish, here are a few simple ways to honor his legacy: Attend a Blessing of the Animals: Many churches offer this beautiful tradition on or near October 4th. Bring your pets to receive a blessing and give thanks for the creatures who share our lives. Read the Canticle of the Sun: Let Francis’s words draw you into wonder and praise. Consider reading it aloud at dinner or during evening prayer. Read wonderful children’s book on St. Francis - here are my favorites. Spend Time in Nature: Take a walk, sit in the garden, or simply pause to notice the beauty around you. Let it lead you to worship. Serve the Poor: In the spirit of Francis, offer your time or resources to those in need. Consider a local food pantry, shelter, or charitable organization. Bake Almond Cookies: According to tradition, these were Francis’s favorite treat—requested on his deathbed from a dear friend. Sharing them is a sweet way to remember the joy he carried, even to the end. (Recipe at the end of the post.) St. Francis’s life is a radical testimony to the Gospel—a call to humility, peace, joy, and total dependence on God. As we honor him today, may we be inspired to loosen our grip on what does not last and open our hearts more fully to the life that does. the recipe - St. Francis’ Almond Cookies Ingredients 1 3/4 cups whole almonds 1 cup sugar 2 Tablespoons flour 1/8 teaspoon salt 4 large egg whites 1 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 cup sliced almonds Directions Toast whole almonds in a 300° oven for five minutes. Cool. Place in a food processor with sugar, flour, and salt.  Process until finely ground. In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites to loosen them up. Add everything except the sliced almonds, and stir thoroughly until it forms a dough. Use a teaspoon to scoop the dough onto the baking sheet, leaving at least an inch between the cookies. Drop by teaspoonfuls on parchment-covered baking sheet 1″ apart.  Sprinkle with sliced almonds.  Bake at 300° for 20 to 25 minutes.

The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is coming up on October 4th. St. Francis of Assisi holds a special place in Christian history. St. Francis of Assisi is known for his radical love for God, giving away everything that he had to live in poverty and to serve those in need. He is also known for his love for all God's creations. His unwavering faith and love for Jesus have made him an enduring symbol of devotion. One of my favorite ways to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is with children's books on St. Francis. Reading books about the saints is such an easy and fun way to help our children learn about our faith's heroes. They are a powerful teaching tool to help children understand who the saints were and why they are important. Today I am sharing some of my favorite books about St. Francis. I hope they are a blessing! 1. Brother Francis of Assisi by Tomie dePaola Tomie dePaola, a master storyteller and illustrator, weaves the enchanting tale of St. Francis in a way that is accessible and captivating for young readers. Through vibrant illustrations and simple yet engaging storytelling, children will journey with Francis from his days as a carefree young man to his transformation into a humble and devoted servant of God. This book brilliantly captures the spirit of Francis and his message of love and compassion. 2. Brother Sun, Sister Moon by Katherine Paterson Katherine Paterson, renowned for her storytelling, brings St. Francis's profound connection with nature to life in "Brother Sun, Sister Moon." This beautifully illustrated book introduces children to the saint's unwavering belief in the interconnectedness of all living things. As they follow the poetic narrative, young readers will discover the wonders of creation and the importance of stewardship, making it a perfect choice for nurturing a love and care of nature. 3. Saint Francis and the Animals by Phil Gallery In "Saint Francis and the Animals," Phil Gallery offers a heartwarming exploration of St. Francis's extraordinary affinity for animals. This delightful book invites children to join Francis in his encounters with creatures great and small, emphasizing the message of kindness and respect for all living beings. Through engaging text and vivid illustrations, young readers will learn valuable lessons about empathy and the beauty of coexisting harmoniously with the animal kingdom. 4. The Prayer of St. Francis illustrated by Giuliano Ferri "The Prayer of St. Francis" is a timeless classic that introduces children to the profound prayer attributed to the saint. Illustrated by Giuliano Ferri, this book beautifully illustrates the words of St. Francis's prayer, encouraging young hearts to embrace its wisdom and embody its values of peace, love, and selflessness. Through the serene and evocative illustrations, children will gain a deeper understanding of the prayer's significance in the saint's life and its enduring relevance today.

Happy first day of October! October invites us closer to the end of Ordinary Time, where the quiet, steady work of faithfulness continues to unfold. The days are cooler now, the light slants differently, and the world begins to settle into autumn’s hush. It’s a month for reflection and intentionality, for cozying up with prayer books, lighting candles at dusk, and finding Christ in the small, hidden places of our homes and hearts. This is the season of the long obedience, where saints quietly walk beside us and the wisdom of the Church anchors us in grace. Whether you’re refreshing your family rhythms, leaning into Scripture, or simply trying to pray in the midst of a full life, know that this slow, sacred work matters. I’m so grateful to journey through it with you. Here’s an overview with helpful links: October 4th - The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi October 18th - The Feast of St. Luke October 23rd - The Feast of St. James of Jerusalem October 28th - The Feast of St. Simon and St. Jude October 31st - All Hallows Eve Current Season: Ordinary Time During the month of August, we continue our journey through the season of Ordinary Time. Here is a helpful article overviewing the season: The Season of Ordinary Time And check out my latest guidebook, The Liturgical Home: Ordinary Time . It gives you everything you need to know to celebrate the season of Ordinary Time in your home. October 4th - The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi On the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, we remember a man who embraced the Gospel with such wholehearted simplicity that his life became a living witness to Christ’s peace and humility. Known for his love of creation, his care for the poor, and his joyful poverty, Francis reminds us that true discipleship is not found in comfort or status, but in surrender. He laid down everything to follow Jesus, and in doing so, he found everything that mattered. This feast invites us to walk more gently upon the earth, to love more freely, and to see Christ in the faces of the lowly and the overlooked. As we honor St. Francis today, may we echo his prayer: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis My Favorite Children's Books About St. Francis St. Francis' Favorite Cookies October 18th - The Feast of St. Luke On the Feast of St. Luke, we give thanks for the beloved physician and evangelist whose Gospel reveals the tender mercy of Christ. Through Luke’s careful witness, we encounter a Savior who lifts up the lowly, welcomes the outsider, and brings healing to the broken in body and spirit. His writings remind us that God’s grace reaches into the quiet, aching places of human need with compassion and restoration. As we honor St. Luke today, we are invited to become bearers of that same mercy, to speak hope, to serve with love, and to reflect the healing presence of Christ in a world still longing for wholeness. Celebrating the Feast of St. Luke Pumpkin Muffins for the Feast of St. Luke October 23rd - The Feast of St. James of Jerusalem On the Feast of St. James of Jerusalem, we remember the steadfast leader of the early Church, called the brother of our Lord and honored as a pillar among the apostles. Known for his wisdom, humility, and devotion to prayer, James helped guide the fledgling Christian community with a deep reverence for both the Jewish roots of the faith and the expanding work of the Spirit among the Gentiles. His witness calls us to unity grounded in truth, to leadership marked by gentleness, and to a faith that is not merely spoken but lived. As we honor St. James today, may we, like him, become peacemakers in the Church and faithful doers of the Word. How to Celebrate St. James of Jerusalem October 31st - All Hallows Eve (Halloween) On All Hallows’ Eve, the night before the Church lifts up all the saints in glory, we pause at the edge of mystery, acknowledging the thin space between heaven and earth, time and eternity. This evening carries ancient echoes: of light pressing back the darkness, of courage in the face of death, and of the triumph of Christ over every shadow. As flickering candles glow and little ones don costumes, we remember that this is not merely a night of superstition or fright, but a vigil of hope. We belong to a great cloud of witnesses, and even now, the saints surround us, cheering us on. In the face of fear, we stand in the victory of Christ, who has overcome the world. The Christian Origins of Halloween Bones of the Dead: An All Hallows Eve Treat Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate every special day this month, including the history, recipes, and traditions!

On September 29 , the Church joyfully celebrates The Feast of St. Michael and All Angels , traditionally known as Michaelmas (pronounced MIK-uhl-mus ), a shortened form of “Michael’s Mass.” This is the day we set aside to honor St. Michael the Archangel, captain of the heavenly armies, and to celebrate the ministry of all the angels, those powerful, awe-inspiring creatures who serve God in both heaven and earth. Why Do We Call Him “Saint” Michael? The title saint might sound strange when applied to an angel, but it simply means “holy one” —someone set apart for God’s purposes. That includes not just human saints, but also angels, who continually worship God and carry out His will. And while we usually associate “saints” with canonized humans, in Scripture, all of God's people are called saints, and the angels are counted among them. Why Celebrate Angels? In celebrating the angels, we’re joining the Church in thanking God for everything He created , including these mysterious and mighty beings. Angels appear all throughout Scripture doing very real, very important work: Bringing messages from God (Gabriel to Mary) Guiding and protecting God’s people (Psalm 91) Warring against evil (Michael in Revelation) Enacting God’s judgments And always, worshiping God continually in the heavenly realm. What the Bible Really Says About Angels Part of what makes angelic celebration feel unfamiliar is how deeply misunderstood they’ve become in popular culture. Forget the chubby, winged babies floating on clouds, biblical angels are startling , mighty , and often fear-inducing . Some look like men. Others are covered in eyes (Ezekiel 10:12). Some appear with blazing swords, while others move invisibly through the world. Nearly every time a human encounters one in Scripture, the first thing the angel says is: “Do not be afraid.” Types of Angels in Scripture Here’s a quick look at the different kinds of angels we encounter in the Bible: Archangels “Arch” means “chief” or “principal.” Michael is the only angel explicitly named an archangel (Jude 1:9, 1 Thess. 4:16). Gabriel is often assumed to be one due to his prominent roles. Cherubim Seen guarding Eden (Genesis 3:24) and in Ezekiel’s visions. Associated with the presence and holiness of God. Seraphim Described in Isaiah 6 with six wings . Constantly worshiping before God’s throne: “Holy, holy, holy…” The Angel of the Lord A unique figure who sometimes appears to speak as God Himself. Scholars differ on whether this angel is a theophany (a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ) or a distinct angelic being. Unnamed or Common Angels Often sent as messengers or helpers (e.g. Genesis 19, Luke 2). These are the “everyday angels” carrying out God’s work in the world. Fallen Angels Those who rebelled with Satan. Cast out of heaven, now enemies of God and His people. Why Do We Celebrate Holy Michael in Particular? Of all the angels, Michael holds a special place in Scripture and in Church tradition. He is the captain of the heavenly host , leading the angels in battle against the forces of evil. He is the one who cast Lucifer and his followers out of heaven. He is credited with intervening in key moments : stopping Abraham from sacrificing Isaac, contending for the body of Moses (Jude 1:9), and ultimately defeating the dragon (Satan) in Revelation 12:7–9 . Michael is the ultimate defender, of heaven, of God’s people, and of truth. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels As always, there are so many simple, meaningful ways to mark this feast in your home. Here are a few favorite traditions, drawn from centuries of Christian practice across the world: Seasonal Foods: Carrots & Blackberries In the British Isles , blackberries and carrots are in season for Michaelmas. A charming Irish legend says that when Lucifer fell, he landed in a blackberry bush and cursed it , making blackberries sour after September 29. So enjoy them while you can, try my Blackberry Hand Pie recipe this week! Roast Chicken (or Goose!) In medieval Europe, roast goose was the traditional Michaelmas meal. If goose is hard to find, a Perfect Roast Chicken makes a delicious and fitting substitute. Want more ways to bring Michaelmas to life in your home? In the next post, I’ll share two more fun and festive recipes perfect for this heavenly feast! The Recipe - Blackberry Hand Pies Dough 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons sugar Pinch of salt 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces and cold 3/4 cup sour cream Egg wash (1 egg and 1 teaspoon water) Granulated sugar Filling 3 cups of blackberries 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3/4 cup granulated sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch To prepare the dough Blend the flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. Add sour cream and pulse until the dough starts to form a ball. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and press into a rectangle. Divide the dough in half, wrap each in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour. To prepare the filling Combine the blackberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat until they start to break down slightly. Cook until the blackberries are tender and have released their juices, about 5 minutes. Whisk together the sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl, then add to the blackberries. To assemble the hand pies Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. When you are ready to prepare the hand pies, roll one of the chilled doughs out on a floured surface. As you are rolling, you can straighten out the edges with your hands to create a 10 x 15-inch rectangle. Using a pastry wheel, cut the dough into 12 equal squares by cutting 4 strips along the length and 3 strips along the short side. Put about 2 tablespoons filling in each center of half the squares. Lightly brush the edges of the filled squares with egg wash. Cover with the remaining squares. Press the dough together then use a fork to gently adhere the hand pies around the edges. Cut a cross on each top. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling. Transfer to the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. If baking both baking sheets at once, rotate top to bottom after 15 minutes. Let’s Get Ready Together! Michaelmas is a rich feast, steeped in Scripture, tradition, and timeless meaning. It reminds us that we are not alone . Heaven is active, present, and full of holy beings who war against evil, deliver God’s messages, and join in the eternal worship around His throne. As you prepare to mark this feast with your family, through simple traditions, beautiful meals, and meaningful Scripture, I’m so excited to walk with you. We don’t have to reinvent the wheel; the liturgical calendar already gives us everything we need to mark time with meaning. Be sure to follow along this week as I share recipes, activities, and tutorials to help you celebrate The Feast of St. Michael and All Angels in your home. St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle!

In my previous post , I shared the history, meaning, and biblical background of the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels, along with a delicious recipe for Blackberry Hand Pies to mark the day. If you missed it, be sure to go back and read that one first , it’s packed with theology, Scripture, and practical ways to understand who the angels are and why we celebrate them. Now, let’s keep the celebration going with a few more fun and meaningful traditions , perfect for gathering your family, engaging your kids, and connecting your table with the life of the Church. Fireworks & Festivities: Inspired by San Miguel de Allende In San Miguel de Allende, Mexico , Michaelmas is joyfully celebrated with La Alborada , a pre-dawn festival (yes, 4 a.m.!) filled with fireworks, music, and processions honoring St. Michael as defender of the light. Bring it home: Surprise your kids with a sparkler walk at dawn (or dusk!) Light candles and sing a hymn to start the day Enjoy a sunrise breakfast together as a celebration of light overcoming darkness Bake an Angel Food Cake There’s something so fitting about serving light, airy, and white angel food cake for a feast dedicated to heavenly messengers. Top it with seasonal blackberries for a nod to Michaelmas legends and a delicious, liturgically-minded dessert. Did you know? Blackberries were once believed to turn bitter after Michaelmas, cursed by the dragon (Lucifer) after his fall from heaven. Bake Traditional Scottish Bannocks In Scotland, bannocks , simple, round barley or oat cakes, were baked for Michaelmas. They symbolized sustenance, blessing, and the turning of the seasons. Make your own: Bannocks are quick to whip up and perfect for kids to help with. Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey for an easy, rustic breakfast or snack. Here’s a great recipe . Slay the Dragon! One of the most iconic images in Scripture comes from Revelation 12: St. Michael battling the dragon , a symbol of Satan and the forces of evil. This moment captures the spiritual warfare that continues even now, and the victory we have through Christ. Make it fun for kids: Create or buy a dragon piñata . Let children “slay the dragon” in the backyard with foam swords or wooden sticks. Talk about what it means for Michael to fight for us still today. Sing “Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones” This hymn is a powerful chorus of praise , joining our voices with the angels and saints: “Alleluia, angel choirs above are raising,Cherubim and seraphim, in unceasing chorus praising…” Perfect for family prayer time, morning devotions, or even while baking together. Tip: If your family enjoys singing, try teaching one verse each year and build your hymn knowledge slowly over time. Let’s Get Ready Together The Feast of St. Michael and All Angels gives us a vivid picture of the spiritual reality behind our everyday lives. It reminds us that we are not alone , that heaven is full of light and strength, and that God has surrounded us with help, protection, and love. As you mark this feast in your home, whether through blackberries and bannocks, fireworks or hymns, know that you’re joining a long tradition of Christians who have sanctified their time with joy, beauty, and meaning.