Make a traditional Simnel cake for Laetare Sunday! Traditionally, in England, they eat Simnel cakes (special rich fruitcakes) on this day. Simnel Cake is a rich cake filled with spices and dried fruits and decorated with marzipan. The cake is decorated with eleven marzipan balls representing the eleven faithful apostles (excluding Judas).  Simnel Cake Ingredients ½ cup candied cherries ( I used maraschino cherries) 3½ cups mixed dried fruit ( I bought bags of dried apricots, raisins, dates and prunes and combined them) 12 tablespoons soft unsalted butter 1 cup superfine sugar zest of 1 lemon 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ cup almond meal 3 large eggs 2 tablespoons milk 2½ pounds of marzipan to decorate (recipe for marzipan at the bottom of the page) confectioners’ sugar for rolling 1 tablespoon apricot jam (melted) 1 egg white (optional) Instructions Take everything you need out of the fridge so it can get to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Butter and line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch springform cake tin with a double layer of brown baking paper. Chop the cherries very finely and add them to the rest of the fruit. Cream the butter and sugar until very soft and light, and add the lemon zest. You could do this by hand, just with a bowl and wooden spoon, but I own up to using my freestanding mixer here. But it’s not crucial, not least because the intention with fruit cakes is not to whip air into them. Measure the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and ground almonds into a bowl and stir to combine. Add one of the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar with two tablespoons of the dry flour-and-spice ingredients. Then, beat in the remaining eggs in the same way. Beat in the rest of the dry ingredients and then the milk. Finally, fold in the fruit. Dust a surface with a little icing sugar, then roll out about 14oz of the marzipan. Cut it into an 8-inch circle, which will fit in the middle of the cake later. Spoon half of the fruit cake mixture into the cake tin, smoothing it down with a rubber spatula, and then lay the marzipan circle on top of it. Spoon the rest of the mixture into the tin on top of the marzipan circle and smooth the top again. Bake for half an hour and then turn the oven down to 300°F for another 1½ hours or until the cake has risen and is firm on top. Let it cool completely on a rack before you spring it open. Unspring the cooled fruit cake and unwrap the lining. Roll out another 14-oz circle of marzipan, paint the top of the cake with the melted apricot jam, and then stick it on. Make 11 apostle balls out of the remaining marzipan, roughly 1 inch in size. Beat the egg white just till it’s a bit frothy and loosened up a little, no more, and use that as glue to stick the apostles around the edge of the cake. Now for the part I love (but you can ignore it altogether). Paint the whole cake with egg white, then blow-torch the marzipan so it scorches slightly, giving a beauteously burnished look. Recipe from Nigella Lawson . Homemade Marzipan This recipe makes about 5 ounces of marzipan. I tripled it and had enough for the Simnel Cake. Ingredients 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp blanched almond flour  9 tbsp powdered sugar  1 1/2 tbsp water  1/4-1/2 tsp almond extract  Instructions First, process the almond flour and powdered sugar in a food processor. Add the water and almond extract and pulse a couple of times until the dough holds together and forms a ball. If the dough is too dry and doesn’t hold together, add a tiny bit more water. Make sure to add just a little until a thick dough is formed. If it’s too sticky and wet, add more almond flour. Take out the marzipan ball and knead it on a clean surface for about 30 seconds. You can now shape it into a log, wrap it in cling wrap, and refrigerate it. It will firm up slightly in the refrigerator.

Amid the seasons of penitence and preparation in the church calendar, Advent and Lent, little gems exist known as Refreshment Sundays. On these days, the penitential tone eases, hence the name. The Refreshment Sundays are Gaudete Sunday, which falls in the middle of Advent, and Laetare Sunday, which falls in the middle of Lent. Refreshment Sundays offer a pause in the austerity of their respective seasons, allowing us a moment of respite from the spiritual disciplines that we have taken on. They also shift the somber mood towards a more joyful anticipation. This pause is not a complete break from the season’s focus but rather a reminder that our preparation and penance have a purpose, that they lead us towards the celebration of the birth of Christ at Christmas and His Resurrection at Easter. A Lenten Pause Falling on the fourth Sunday of Lent, approximately halfway through this penitential season, Laetare Sunday offers a pause to remind us that we are almost through with our journey and Easter is almost here! It is an apex, a turning point, where we are offered a glimmer of hope and a lightening of the somber mood. It increases our sense of anticipation and serves as a reminder of the joy that the Lord brings into our lives, even in times of waiting and preparation. Laetare Sunday reminds us of the Christian journey’s duality: the balance of repentance with forgiveness, weeping with laughing and suffering with joy. It reminds us that even as we prepare, reflect, and repent, we do so with the joyful anticipation of the great mystery of our faith: the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Rejoice! Laetare Sunday derives its name from Isaiah 66:10, the opening antiphon for the day.  “Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her,     all you who love her; rejoice greatly with her,     all you who mourn over her.” Laetare means “rejoice” and not just “rejoice” without punctuation or emphasis. Laetare is an imperative, more like an enthusiastic exhortation or command: “Rejoice!” Right in the middle of Lent, we, as a people, are encouraged or urged to rejoice! This powerful scripture sets the tone for the day. It serves as a beautiful reminder that even in times of repentance and self-denial, there is hope! Laetare Sunday stands as a beacon of light, guiding us through our spiritual journey with the promise of joy and renewal. It invites us to pause and reflect on our journey so far. It also strengthens us to renew our spiritual disciplines in our home and to continue on our Lenten journey towards Easter.  Alternative Names   Laetare Sunday has many different names. Along with Refreshment Sunday, it also bears the names Mid-Lent Sunday, Mothering Sunday, and Rose Sunday. Before the adoption of the modern common lectionaries, it was called “the Sunday of the Five Loaves” since the Gospel reading for the Sunday was the miracle of the loaves and fishes.  Mothering Sunday In England, Laetare Sunday was known as “Mothering Sunday.” On this day, people could return to the church where they were baptized, called their “mother church.” Those who visited their “mother church” were said to have gone “a-mothering.” In medieval times, Mothering Sunday was a cause for great celebration because domestic servants were given the day off to visit their “mother church.” This also allowed them to visit their families and friends. Often, it was the sole occasion families could gather together since servants weren’t granted free days on other occasions. On Mothering Sunday, it was customary for children and young people to pick wildflowers on their way to church, place them in the church, and give them to their mothers. This religious tradition may have evolved into the secular tradition of Mother’s Day. Rose Sunday Laetare Sunday is also called Rose Sunday because clergy wear rose-colored vestments, unlike the typical penitential purple of Lent. The rose color, rather than purple, represents joy and rejoicing amid preparation and penance, serving as a visual reminder of the hope and light that the Resurrection of Christ brings to the world. Note: If reference is made to a single “Refreshment Sunday” or “Rose Sunday,” it usually means Laetare Sunday. Ways to Celebrate Laetare Sunday Visit your “mother” church, as they do in England, where people return to the church of their baptism on Laetare Sunday, known as “Mothering Sunday.”  Give your mother flowers. In some regions of the world, children present their mothers with flowers and small gifts, a custom that beautifully ties into the themes of joy and appreciation. Light a rose-colored candle. Embrace the tradition of using the color rose by lighting a rose-colored candle during your prayer time or meal.  Switch out your purple decor for rose. Decorate your table with rose pink-colored roses. Make a rose-colored dessert. In keeping with the theme of “Rose Sunday,” many families prepare rose-colored or flavored desserts. This can include strawberry or raspberry desserts, rose-colored macarons, and cakes adorned with rose petals or pink icing. Make a traditional Simnel Cake . The English eat Simnel cakes (special rich fruitcakes) on this day. Simnel Cake is a rich cake filled with spices and dried fruits and decorated with marzipan. The cake is decorated with eleven marzipan balls representing the eleven faithful apostles (excluding Judas).

Another "No Meat Friday" is coming up! I thought it would be helpful to give you one of my family's tried and true meatless recipes before Friday. That way you can shop and prepare ahead of time and you won't have a panic attack as I do when I realize it's Friday and I haven't thought through what I am going to cook! French Onion Soup during Lent is a family tradition of ours. We don't make it every Friday but we do make it at least once during the season. I was always intimidated by French Onion Soup. I thought it must be complicated to make but it is the easiest soup! The only thing that might be difficult is having stale bread on hand! The soup's flavor is rich and intense and when you add the homemade croutons and cheese, it's absolutely incredible! French Onion Soup 4 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 6 cups yellow or white onions, chopped 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar 3 tablespoons flour (I use almond flour) 2 quarts water 1 cup red wine 1 bay leaf salt and pepper to taste croutons 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated thin slices of Swiss cheese Melt 3 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the onions and stir to coat. Cover the onions and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Uncover the pan, raise the heat, and stir in the teaspoons of salt and sugar. Cook until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Sautéed Onions, the base of the soup. Lower the heat. Stir in the flour and 1 more tablespoon of butter. Cook slowly, stirring for 2 to. 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Slowly add the water and the wine, stirring well. Add bay leaf. Simmer partly covered for 30 more minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Water and wine are added to the French Onion Soup base. Prepare large croutons. Pour the soup into a large casserole or individual ramekins. Sprinkle parmesan over the top. Add the croutons. Then lay down the thin slices of Swiss cheese. Sprinkle again with parmesan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes and then broil until lightly brown. Homemade Croutons 1 loaf of stale French or Sourdough bread olive oil or butter Slice bread into 1/2" slices. Brush with olive oil or melted butter and broil until golden brown. Recipe from A Continual Feast Embrace the warmth of Lenten reflection with each spoonful of this rich, comforting French Onion Soup.

“Today is the beginning of our salvation, God is come among men; He who cannot be contained is contained in a womb; the timeless enters time. A great mystery! His conception is without seed, his emptying past telling! So great is this mystery! For God empties himself, takes flesh, and is fashioned as a creature when the angel tells the pure Virgin of her conception: ‘Rejoice, you who are full of grace; the Lord who has great mercy is with you!’” Stichera of Annunciation, St. John the Monk Today is the day we celebrate the Incarnation of the Son of God, the day when God was made flesh. On this day, we remember the Angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would bear the Messiah. And we remember Mary’s beautiful response, “I am the Lord’s servant... May it be unto me according to your word.” We celebrate the Annunciation on March 25 because it is nine months before another important celebration: the Nativity of our Lord which falls on December 25, Christmas day! Ways to Celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation Read Luke 1:26-38. Discuss what it must have been like for Mary to discover that she would be the mother of the Messiah. Ask them if God has ever called them to do something that felt impossible or scary. How did Mary respond? Since today is a feast day, make waffles ! Waffles covered in whipped cream are the traditional fare in Sweden for the Feast of the Annunciation. The tradition dates back to the 12th century. Make Feast of the Annunciation cupcakes. Insert a single chocolate chip or small piece of candy into the batter of each cupcake. Bake them and ice them with pale blue icing. Explain to your children that pale blue is the traditional color for Mary and that the melted candy center of the cupcake represents the baby Jesus inside Mary. Place a centerpiece of red carnations on a central table in your home. Red carnations are symbolic of the Incarnation. Plant marigold seeds. Marigolds are named after the Blessed Virgin Mary. Explain to your children that although you cannot see the seed, it is there much like the baby inside Mary. Make an Annunciation Candle. Take a pale blue or white pillar candle and carve out a niche in its side. Take a small image of the baby Jesus from a Christmas card or website, cut it to size, and place it inside the niche. Cut a small piece of fabric to fit over the niche. Pin the fabric into the candle in order to cover the niche. Explain to your children that the candle represents Mary and the baby Jesus.   Jere Lewis' Famous Waffles 2 cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 eggs 2 cups milk 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons oil 2 heaping teaspoons of baking powder Preheat the waffle iron. Mix all ingredients until well blended. Pour slowly into greased iron. Cook until golden brown. Serve with syrup or whipped cream and fruit.

As the Feast of St. Simon and St. Jude approaches on October 28th, the Church anticipates a unique celebration that honors not one but two remarkable saints. These apostolic partners are commemorated together due to ancient Christian traditions and writings that suggest their collaboration in spreading the Gospel and a shared martyrdom in distant Persia. Their cooperation and shared mission continue to inspire and guide the Christian community, reminding us that great deeds can be accomplished by working together. St. Simon the Zealot St. Simon was a devoted disciple of Jesus. He was distinguished from Simon Peter in that he was referred to as “The Zealot.” His epithet "Zealot" or "Zelotes" suggests that Simon may have belonged to the Zealot party. This ardent Jewish nationalist group resisted Roman occupation. While the Bible doesn't explicitly confirm this connection, it underscores Simon's passion and fervor for his beliefs. St. Simon the Zealot is one of the lesser-detailed apostles in the New Testament, and as such, much of his iconographic representation has been established by tradition. He is often shown with a saw which is about the tradition that he was martyred by being sawn in half. St. Jude St. Jude, also known as "Thaddeus," was another faithful disciple of Jesus. He was the brother of James the Less (Jude 1:1), another disciple of Jesus. He is specifically remembered for his inquiry into why Jesus chose to reveal himself to only a select few rather than the entire world. This intriguing question, posed by St. Jude in John 14:22-24, reflects his contemplative nature. Moreover, St. Jude's contribution to the New Testament includes the authorship of the Epistle of Jude—a letter that offers guidance and wisdom to early Christian communities. The Legend of King Abgar According to Legend, King Abgar V of Edessa (a city in modern-day southeastern Turkey) was suffering from leprosy. Having heard of Jesus' miraculous healing powers, Abgar sent a letter to Jesus asking Him to come to Edessa and cure him. Jesus replied to King Abgar's letter, expressing appreciation for his faith but explaining that He couldn't come to Edessa because His mission in Jerusalem was not yet complete. However, He promised to send one of His disciples to Edessa after His Ascension to heal the king and bring him the truth of the Gospel. Jesus then took a cloth and pressed it to His face. His image miraculously appeared on the cloth. Later, St. Jude brought the miraculous image of Jesus to Edessa along with the Good News of the Gospel. Upon receiving the image, King Abgar was healed. Consequently, King Abgar and many of his subjects converted to Christianity. Some ancient sources, like the historian Eusebius of Caesarea, mention the exchange of letters between Abgar and Jesus but not the image. Over time, the story of the image, known as The Image of Edessa or the Mandylion, became an integral part of the legend. The image became one of the most venerated relics in Christian history. It was believed to have been taken to Constantinople in the 10th century and, according to some traditions, might have been identified (or confused) with the Shroud of Turin in later times. This is why St. Jude is often depicted holding an image of Jesus in his hand. The Epistle of Jude The Epistle of Jude, written by St. Jude, is one of the shortest books in the New Testament, with only one chapter containing 25 verses. The letter is a passionate and urgent call for believers to remain faithful to the teachings they have received, and to be wary of false teachers. One of the most distinctive features of the Epistle of Jude is its reference to non-canonical texts. The mention of the dispute between Michael and Satan over Moses' body (Jude 9) does not appear elsewhere in the Bible, and the quote from the Book of Enoch (Jude 14-15) directly cites a text that is outside the canonical Jewish and Christian scriptures (though it is considered canonical in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church). Jude uses vivid and somewhat harsh imagery to describe the false teachers, making his warnings very graphic and memorable but the concluding doxology (verses 24-25) is one of the most beautiful and frequently quoted passages in the New Testament, acclaiming God and his son, Jesus Christ. Brothers in Apostleship Both St. Simon and St. Jude were witnesses to significant moments in the life of Jesus and the early Christian community. They followed Jesus as he preached and ministered up until his crucifixion, they witnessed his resurrection, received his teachings during the 40 days post-resurrection, and were present at his ascension. Their enduring commitment led them to the upper room, where they joined fellow disciples in awaiting the promised Holy Spirit and became Apostles of the Early Church. The joint celebration of St. Simon and St. Jude also reflects their shared missionary journey. Tradition holds that they ventured to distant Persia, where they fearlessly preached the Gospel. Their unwavering dedication to spreading the Good News ultimately led to their martyrdom. Today, the relics of St. Jude find their place of honor in Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, serving as a testament to their bold faith and joint mission. The Acts of St. Simon and St. Jude The "Acts of Simon and Jude" is an apocryphal text that narrates the missionary journey of the apostles Simon the Zealot and Jude to the Persian Empire. This text, like many other apocryphal acts of the apostles, was written to provide a narrative about the later lives and missions of the apostles, for whom the canonical scriptures provide limited information. In this account, the apostles arrived in the ancient city of Babylon and began preaching the Gospel. Their endeavors, however, were not without resistance. The apostles encountered two powerful magicians, Zaroes and Arphaxat, who tried to oppose their missionary efforts with their magical abilities. In response, Simon and Jude began to perform a series of miracles that stood as a resounding counterpoint to the magicians' enchantments. These miracles, performed in the name of Jesus, served as a testament to the power of Jesus and validated their message in the eyes of the local population. Even influential figures within the Persian realm found themselves drawn to the Christian faith, leading to a profound wave of conversions. After many successful conversions and the establishment of Christian communities, both apostles were eventually martyred for their faith. Legend has it that St. Simon was sawn in half and that St. Jude was clubbed to death. The relics of St. Simon and St. Jude are believed to be located in Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Simon and St. Jude Read the Epistle of Jude. Locate the area that used to be Persia on a map, then look at where Israel is. Discuss how far of a distance it would have been to travel by foot or by boat to spread the Gospel. Make Soul Cakes. Since The Feast of St. Simon and St. Jude occurs so close to All Hallow’s Eve and All Saints Day, traditionally Christians used to begin to prepare food such as soul cakes beginning on this day.

On October 23rd, Christians worldwide celebrate the Feast of St. James of Jerusalem, also known as James the Just or James, the Brother of the Lord (more on that later). St. James of Jerusalem was a remarkable leader and writer of the early Christian Church. His wisdom, character, and contributions to Christian thought continue to inspire and guide believers worldwide. As we honor his memory on this special day, may we also reflect on the timeless teachings in the Epistle of James, embracing a life of faith, wisdom, and good deeds. The Man Behind the Name According to Eusebius of Caesarea, the “father of church history,” St. James had a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus, and this experience led to his belief in Jesus as the Messiah. From there, we learn about St. James of Jerusalem primarily from the Book of Acts and the writings of Paul in Galatians. These accounts shed light on his pivotal role in the early Christian Church. From Acts 1:14, we read that St. James was in the upper room praying when the Holy Spirit fell and was part of the early church in Jerusalem. Our next mention of him is in I Corinthians 15:7-8, where Paul recounts the risen Christ appearing to James, then all of the apostles, and last to Paul. In Galatians, Paul says that three years after his conversion and, after traveling and preaching to the Gentiles, he returned to Jerusalem to meet with Peter and saw no other apostle but James. Pillar of the Church We jump ahead in time in Galatians 2; Paul shares that it had been fourteen years since his conversion. He had been traveling and preaching the Good News to the Gentiles. He returned to Jerusalem with Barnabas and Titus to meet with the leaders of the Church and to make sure that they approved the gospel that he preached. Paul refers to James, Peter, and John as “esteemed pillars of the church” and says that they gave him and Barnabas “the right hand of fellowship” when they recognized the grace given to them. They agreed that Paul and Barnabas should go to the Gentiles and that they would go to the Jews. They only asked that Paul and Barnabas continue to remember the poor. (Galatians 2:9-10) The Council at Jerusalem One of the most significant events in James’s life was his leadership in the Jerusalem Council, as documented in the Book of Acts (Acts 15). This council addressed critical issues related to the inclusion of Gentile converts into the Christian community and the observance of Jewish law. After hearing accounts from Peter, Paul, and Barnabas concerning the movement of the Holy Spirit amongst the Gentiles, St. James stood and spoke eloquently about God’s inclusion of Gentiles and their role in the Christian faith. His wisdom and leadership played a pivotal role in reaching a decision that allowed Gentiles to become part of the Christian community without adhering to all aspects of Jewish law. According to several early Christian historians, St. James is considered the first bishop of the Church in Jerusalem. He was highly esteemed among the Jews and Christians and was known for his piety, righteousness, and dedication to Jewish law. During his bishopric, the Church experienced famine and persecution from the Jewish religious leaders, eventually leading to his death.  A Martyr for the Faith Tragically, James’s life came to a violent end. According to the historian Josephus in his “Antiquities of the Jews,” James was brought before the Jewish high priest Ananus, who was known for his bold and insolent character. Ananus saw an opportunity to exercise his authority and rid himself of James because the Roman governor Festus had died, and his successor, Albinus, was not yet in office. In AD 62 or 69, Ananus assembled the Jewish Sanhedrin, a council of judges, and accused James and some of his companions of breaking Jewish law. Ananus then ordered that James and his companions be stoned to death for their alleged transgressions. This was a massive blow to the early church. The Controversy Surrounding James’s Brother There is an ongoing debate among Christian denominations regarding James’s relationship with Jesus. The concept of “brother” in Hebrew and many other ancient languages is more inclusive than the strict modern Western definition. In ancient cultures, people often used terms like “brother” to refer to male relatives within an extended family, including cousins, nephews, and other close male kin. This linguistic flexibility is relevant to discussions about the “brothers” of Jesus mentioned in the New Testament because it has led to different interpretations among scholars and within various Christian traditions. Some Christians interpret the term “brothers” to mean close relatives or cousins rather than biological siblings when discussing Jesus’ family. Others interpret it more literally, believing that Jesus had half-siblings, such as James, mentioned earlier.  The Epistle of James Tradition attributes the Epistle of James to St. James of Jerusalem. The Epistle is unique in its focus on practical Christian living and ethical guidance. Unlike texts that delve deeply into theology or doctrine, James offers practical advice on faith, patience, and justice . It emphasizes the importance of living out one’s faith through good works and challenges Christians to examine and improve their way of life. Symbols and Icons In Christian art and iconography, St. James of Jerusalem is often depicted holding a book or scroll, symbolizing his authorship of the Epistle of James. This image serves as a reminder of his enduring influence on Christian thought and practice. The Cathedral of St. James St. James of Jerusalem is considered the patron saint of Jerusalem, and the Cathedral of St. James in Jerusalem is said to be built upon his remains. The Cathedral is dedicated to St. James of Jerusalem and St. James the son of Zebedee . It was built during the 12th century on the remains of a 5th-century Georgian church on a site identified as the burial place of St. James of Jerusalem. It is located in the Armenian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem and is one of the few cathedrals from the Crusades to have survived almost intact.  Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. James Read the Book of James (it’s not long!) to gain insights into his teachings on faith and wisdom. Since St. James wrote a letter or epistle, take a moment to write a letter to a loved one. Explore Armenian culture and cuisine by making lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread. Making lavash connects us with the rich heritage of the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem, where St. James’s Cathedral stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. the recipe —

As we celebrate the  Feast of St. Luke  on October 18th, I love incorporating small traditions into our daily life that bring the liturgical calendar into our homes. One fun way to do this is by baking something special that’s tied to the day. Did you know that pumpkins are a traditional St. Luke’s Day food? In Venice, Italy, there’s an old proverb that says pumpkins go stale on St. Luke’s Day! This idea may have been tied to the harvest season and the autumn transition. While we may not think of pumpkins as "going stale" now, it’s a great excuse to bake something warm and cozy with them as fall settles in. Since the Feast of St. Luke often comes with lovely “summer-like” days in the northern hemisphere (often called St. Luke’s Little Summer), I think baking a comforting treat with the rich flavors of fall is a wonderful way to celebrate. That’s where these  Pumpkin Muffins  come in. They’re moist, lightly spiced, and just perfect for an afternoon snack with tea or as a quick breakfast. Plus, they fill the house with that lovely autumn aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin. Whether you're familiar with the  Feast of St. Luke  or simply looking for a reason to bake with pumpkin, this recipe is a delicious way to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen. So, let’s get started! 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. Place the muffin pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a central muffin comes out clean. The recipe yields 2 dozen muffins. Enjoy! These  Pumpkin Muffins  are a simple, sweet way to celebrate the Feast of St. Luke. As we honor this special man, may this small tradition remind us of the goodness God and the richness of our faith. Enjoy baking and savoring these muffins with your family or loved ones this St. Luke’s Day! And if you'd like to learn all about St. Luke and more meaningful ways to celebrate him in your home click here .

Tomorrow is the feast of St. Michael and All Angels which means that the feasting begins tonight! St. Michael’s and All Angels Day is also known as Michaelmas (pronounced mik-uhl-mus) which means the mass of St. Michael. It is the special day set aside by the church to celebrate St. Michael, the captain of the heavenly host as well as all other angels. So why, exactly, do we celebrate angels and why do we refer to Michael as a saint? All of this can be weird for some people but it need not be. A saint is simply someone who is in heaven with God and we celebrate St. Michael and all angels because we are thankful for everything that God has created, including angels. Angels are extremely important beings; they fight against the forces of evil, they protect us and they give us messages from God. Maybe the reason why celebrating the angels of the bible is weird to us is because they are some, of the most misunderstood and misrepresented beings from the bible. The secular world depicts them as chubby, nude children floating around, shooting arrows. But in the bible they are powerful, awe-inspiring creatures. They usually incite fear when humans see them! The descriptions of angels in the bible are completely different than what the secular world depicts. Angels can have the appearance of men, they often have swords, they can move without humans seeing them or they can look rather bizarre as in Ezekiel 10:12, where it says their entire bodies, including their backs, their hands, and their wings, were completely full of eyes, as were their four wheels. The angels of the bible don’t just float around, they are appointed messengers of God with the most important messages, they fight against the forces of darkness, they protect us, and they worship God in the heavenly places. They are super important! Okay, so why do we celebrate Michael? Well, Michael is considered to be the captain of the heavenly host. Not only is he an archangel who is an angel of the highest rank, he is also a chief messenger of God and the chief leader of God’s battles in the war against Satan. Michael is considered to be the most powerful of all of God’s angels. He cast Lucifer and all of the fallen angels out of heaven, he was one who stopped Abraham from sacrificing Isaac, and he fought Satan for the body of Moses. Ways to Celebrate Read about the different angels in the bible. Revelation 12, Ezekiel 10, Revelation 8, Luke 2:13-15, Genesis 19:1, Psalm 91:11, Matthew 24:31 Make roast goose. In Ireland and Great Britain, the traditional dinner is one with roast goose and carrots. If it’s not easy to find a goose in your area, make a roast chicken instead. We are going to be making our family’s favorite, Lemon and Rosemary Roast Chicken . Make something with carrots or blackberries. Carrots and blackberries are in season in the British Isles during this time so they are traditional foods to be eaten on this day. According to an Irish legend, when Michael cast Lucifer out of Heaven, he fell on a blackberry bush and cursed and spat on the blackberries, making them sour after September 29 so all blackberries must be eaten up. In honor of this amazing legend, we are making blackberry hand pies for tonight’s dessert! Sharing the recipe below. Make bannocks . In Scotland, it is traditional to eat bannocks on St. Michael’s Day. Bannocks are kind of like pancakes only they are made of oat or barley flour. Make angel food cake ! Fight a dragon. In the book of Revelation, Michael and his angels fought the dragon (Satan), and the dragon was cast down to earth. Make a dragon pinata with your kids or make a devil’s food cake and allow your kids to “slay” the dragon cake with plastic knives. Blackberry Hand Pies Ingredients 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 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 Topping Egg wash (1 egg and 1 teaspoon water) Granulated sugar Directions For the dough: Blend the flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add the butter and pulse until mixture resembles 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 make 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. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture starts to thicken and turns translucent. Remove from heat and allow to cool. To bake 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. To prepare the topping: 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.

The Feast of Holy Michael and All Angels, commonly known as Michaelmas, is celebrated on September 29th. This special day in the Church calendar honors the Archangel Michael and all angels, recognizing their protection, guidance, and participation in God’s divine plan. Michaelmas has long been associated with various traditions, many of which have their roots in the British Isles. Blackberry hand pies One such delicious tradition is to enjoy foods that are in season—like blackberries. According to Irish legend, when Michael cast Lucifer out of Heaven, the devil landed in a blackberry bush. Enraged, he cursed the berries, making them sour after Michaelmas. To honor this legend, we make the most of blackberry season by baking delicious treats, such as  Blackberry Hand Pies for Michaelmas , before the berries turn sour! Crispy pastry filled with a gooey blackberry filling. These hand pies are easy to make and perfect for a Michaelmas celebration. Whether you’re teaching your children about the story of Michael’s victory or simply gathering with family for a festive meal, this recipe offers a sweet and symbolic addition to your feast.

The Church celebrates the Feast of Holy Michael and All Angels  on September 29th! We also know this feast as Michaelmas (pronounced mik-uhl-mus), a shortening of “Michael’s mass.” It is the special day set aside by the church to celebrate Michael, the captain of the heavenly host, and all other angels. Why do we sometimes refer to Michael as “Saint Michael”? This can be weird for some people, but it need not be. A saint is simply someone set apart for God’s purposes. That’s why, as Christians, we are all considered saints. Why Celebrate Angels? So why, exactly, do we celebrate angels? The Church celebrates the Feast of Holy Michael and All Angels because we are thankful for everything that God has created, including angels. Angels are extremely important beings; they give us messages from God and provide guidance, they fight against the forces of evil, they protect us, they enact God’s judgments, and they continually worship God in the heavenly realm, joining in the eternal praise of God.  Angels in the Bible Maybe celebrating the angels of the Bible is weird to us because they are some of the most misunderstood and misrepresented beings from the Bible. The secular world depicts them as chubby, nude children floating around, shooting arrows. But in the Bible, they are powerful, awe-inspiring creatures. They usually incite fear when humans see them! The descriptions of angels in the Bible are entirely different than what the secular world depicts. Angels can have the appearance of men, they often have swords, they can move without humans seeing them, or they can look rather bizarre as in Ezekiel 10:12, where it says their entire bodies, including their backs, their hands, and their wings, are completely full of eyes, as are their four wheels. Types of Angels In the Bible, there are different types of angels: ARCHANGELS These are chief or principal angels. Michael is the only angel explicitly described as an archangel in the Bible (1 Thessalonians 4:16, Jude 1:9), although Gabriel is often assumed to be one due to his important roles. CHERUBIM Genesis tells of cherubim guarding the way to the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24). They also appear in Ezekiel’s visions (Ezekiel 10:3-20). Cherubim are often associated with the presence and holiness of God. SERAPHIM Described in Isaiah’s vision, these angels have six wings and are involved in the worship of God (Isaiah 6:2,6). THE ANGEL OF THE LORD This is a unique angelic figure that appears in the Old Testament, sometimes understood to be a manifestation of God himself, while other times considered a separate angelic being (Genesis 16:7–11). UNNAMED OR COMMON ANGELS These are the angels most frequently mentioned in the Bible, usually appearing as messengers or agents carrying out God’s will. They are not specified as belonging to a particular category. FALLEN ANGELS The angels who rebelled against God. Why Celebrate Michael? Now that we’ve looked at the biblical role of angels, let’s look at why the Church celebrates the Archangel Michael. Michael is considered to be the captain of the heavenly host. Not only is he an archangel who is an angel of the highest rank, but he is also a chief messenger of God and the chief leader of God’s battles in the war against Satan. He cast Lucifer and all of the fallen angels out of heaven, he was the one who stopped Abraham from sacrificing Isaac, and he fought Satan for the body of Moses. We know from the Book of Revelation that Michael leads the heavenly host against the dragon, identified as Satan and that the dragon was thrown down to earth as a result (Revelation 12:7–9). Ways to Celebrate: Perfect Roast Chicken Make perfect roast chicken (or goose!). In Ireland and Great Britain, the traditional dinner for Michaelmas is roast goose. If finding a goose in your area is difficult, make this Perfect Roast Chicken instead.  Blackberry Hand Pies Make something with carrots or blackberries. Carrots and blackberries are in season in the British Isles during this time so they are traditional foods to be eaten on this day. According to an Irish legend, when Michael cast Lucifer out of Heaven, he fell on a blackberry bush and cursed and spat on the blackberries, making them sour after September 29 so all blackberries must be eaten up. In honor of this fantastic legend, make these incredible Blackberry Hand Pies for dessert! Sharing the recipe below. Make bannocks. In Scotland, it is traditional to eat bannocks on Michaelmas. Bannocks are like pancakes but made of oat or barley flour. Angel Food Cake Make angel food cake. Since we are celebrating angels, this Heavenly Angel Food Cake is a fitting dessert for the day! Dragon Pinata Fight a dragon. In the book of Revelation, Michael and his angels fought the dragon (Satan) and cast the dragon down to earth. Make or buy a dragon pinata and “slay” it with a baseball bat. Here , here , and here for some dragon pinata options. Sing the hymn, “ Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones .” This hymn is a celebration of the angelic host, including archangels like Michael. The themes of divine protection, heavenly praise, and the role of angels as messengers and warriors are perfect for the day. Let's Get Ready Together! Celebrating the Feast of Holy Michael and All Angels is a beautiful and meaningful way to honor the profound impact angels have played in the Bible. As you gather with your family to reflect on the history and engage in these simple yet rich traditions, you’ll create lasting memories and deepen your connection to our Christian faith. I’m excited to journey alongside you as we celebrate not only this special day but many more throughout the liturgical year. Be sure to follow along this week as I share all of the recipes and tutorials you’ll need to celebrate the Feast of Holy Michael and All Angels in your home!

On September 21st, Christians around the world celebrate the Feast of St. Matthew , a day dedicated to honoring one of Jesus' twelve apostles who underwent a remarkable transformation from despised tax collector to cherished disciple. The story of St. Matthew is a powerful reminder of Jesus' call to anyone, regardless of their past, into a new life of purpose and faith. To mark this special day, I’m excited to share a fun and meaningful recipe that your family will love— Coin Pancakes ! Why Coin Pancakes? Before St. Matthew became a disciple, he worked as a tax collector in Roman Judea. During that time, tax collectors were often despised for their association with Roman authorities and for profiting off their fellow Jews. Yet Jesus, in His great mercy, called Matthew to follow Him, demonstrating that no one is beyond redemption. To remember St. Matthew’s unique role as a tax collector, we’ll be making coin-shaped pancakes to symbolize the coins he once collected—but with a sweet twist! This simple recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch at the Feast of St. Matthew. The pancakes are light, fluffy, and shaped like little coins, making them a fun and symbolic way to celebrate. Drizzle them with honey or syrup for a sweet, golden touch, and enjoy with your family as you reflect on St. Matthew’s story of transformation. How to Make Coin Pancakes This recipe is incredibly easy and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen—flour, buttermilk, butter, and a few pantry staples. The pancakes come together in just a few minutes, and the small, coin-like shapes make them perfect for little hands. Kids will love helping with this recipe and learning about St. Matthew’s life as you cook together. These Coin Pancakes for the Feast of St. Matthew are a fun way to incorporate St. Matthew’s story into your family’s celebration. They’re not only delicious but also provide a great opportunity to talk about themes of repentance, redemption, and the way Christ called Matthew to follow Him. More Ways to Celebrate St. Matthew’s Day: In addition to making these Coin Pancakes, there are other simple ways to commemorate St. Matthew’s feast day with your family: Read Matthew 9:9-13 : Reflect on the moment Jesus called Matthew to follow Him. Play Monopoly : Get into the spirit of Matthew’s former tax collector life with a game of Monopoly! Enjoy grapes : St. Matthew’s Day coincides with grape harvests in parts of Spain, so enjoy some fresh grapes or grape juice to honor the day. Let’s Get Ready Together! Celebrating the Feast of St. Matthew is a great way to connect with the life of this apostle and reflect on the transforming power of Christ’s call. As you gather around the table to enjoy these fun and symbolic Coin Pancakes, may it be a reminder of the grace and mercy that Jesus extends to all of us. I’m excited to celebrate with you as we continue to journey through the liturgical year! Make sure to follow along for more recipes, activities, and ideas to celebrate the Feast of St. Matthew and other holy days in your home!

On September 21st, Christians worldwide will celebrate the Feast of St. Matthew, a day dedicated to honoring the remarkable life and enduring legacy of one of the beloved apostles. Known both as Matthew and Levi in the Bible, this apostle underwent a profound transformation through his encounter with Jesus, going from a despised tax collector to a cherished disciple and a prominent figure in the early church. As we delve into the story of St. Matthew’s life, we uncover not only the profound meaning behind his transformation but also his enduring legacy. Matthew or Levi? In the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, we are presented with the compelling story of Matthew’s divine calling. As you read these accounts, you might notice that Matthew is referred to as both Matthew and Levi, son of Alphaeus. While you might wonder why we referred to him by both, some scholars suggest that the tax collector simply had two names, one for each language in the region. “Matthew” might have been his Greek name, while “Levi” was his Hebrew name. This practice of having both a Hebrew and a Greek or Roman name was not uncommon in Jewish society during that era, as exemplified by Saul, also known as Paul. It doesn’t necessarily signify a name change but the existence of two names in two different languages. Other scholars believe that the two names indicate a name change. The Bible offers many instances of name changes following significant religious experiences. It is plausible that Matthew adopted or was bestowed the name “Matthew” after his calling by Jesus, as it translates to “gift of Yahweh” in Hebrew, symbolizing his new identity and calling as a disciple of Jesus. Whichever theory is correct, the early Christian community called him Matthew until his death. The Call of St. Matthew Tax Collection in Roman Judea To fully appreciate the call of St. Matthew, his background is a remarkable part of his story. Before embracing the path of discipleship, he served as a tax collector under Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee. Tax collectors, also known as “publicans,” were held in low regard within Jewish society during Jesus’ time. They were often seen as collaborators with the Roman oppressors who occupied the land of Judea. The tax collection system, fraught with potential abuse, allowed collectors to gather more than the prescribed amount, pocketing the surplus for themselves. This encouraged extortion and corruption, leading to the accumulation of wealth through dishonest means. As devout Jews, association with Gentiles, like the Romans, rendered individuals ritually unclean, and tax collectors’ constant interaction with Roman officials further tainted their reputation. Consequently, their income was considered impure, rendering it unfit for religious dues or temple offerings. These factors combined to socially ostracize tax collectors, categorizing them among the “sinners” in many New Testament passages, reflecting their low moral and social standing. The  Scandalous Call of Jesus Understanding this context makes the call of St. Matthew remarkable. When Jesus encounters St. Matthew sitting at the customs house collecting taxes, he issues a simple yet profound call: “Follow me.” Matthew immediately arose, leaving everything behind to follow Jesus. Jesus dined at Matthew’s house with more tax collectors and sinners that night. This incident drew the ire of the religious leaders, prompting Jesus to declare that He came not for the righteous but for sinners, emphasizing the importance of mercy over sacrifice (Matthew 9:12-13). Jesus’ choice to openly associate and dine with tax collectors and sinners, including Matthew, stirred controversy among religious leaders of His time. However, this association embodied Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost, demonstrating God’s boundless love and grace, even for society’s most sinful and marginalized. The Ministry of St. Matthew Following Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, Matthew remained in Jerusalem with his fellow disciples, receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit. As an apostle of the Lord, he dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel and leading the early church. Matthew’s profound teachings and insights into the life of Jesus culminated in the writing of the Gospel According to Matthew, the first gospel account in the New Testament. Matthew designed his Gospel to establish Jesus as the Messiah, particularly for his Jewish readers. Beyond his written legacy, Matthew’s apostolic journey is steeped in rich history and tradition. Early Church fathers like Irenaeus and Clement of Alexandria suggest that Matthew initially preached the Gospel in Judea before embarking on missions to other lands, with Ethiopia often cited as one of his destinations. One notable tradition associated with Matthew involves his encounter with King Hirtacus in Ethiopia. Matthew’s steadfast devotion to his faith led him to confront the king for lusting after Ephigenia, a nun consecrated to God. Matthew’s rebuke, delivered at a Mass, ultimately led to his martyrdom, solidifying his commitment to his faith. Like the other Gospel writers (called the Evangelists), artists often depict St. Matthew as one of the four living creatures of Revelation 4:7. St. Matthew appears as a winged man. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Matthew: Read the story of the call of Matthew in Matthew 9:9-13 or Mark 2:13-17. Eat grapes or drink wine or grape juice. In Logrono, Spain, the Feast of St. Matthew celebration coincides with the grape harvest, so the week-long Las Fiestas de San Mateo features grape-themed festivities. As a nod to St. Matthew’s role as a tax collector: Play Monopoly: Enjoy some family fun with a game of Monopoly. Have a Pay Day: Treat your family to a Pay Day candy bar or a bag of chocolate coins! Pancake Stacks: Make stacks of little pancakes that resemble coins. Click here for the recipe. Let’s Get Ready Together! Celebrating the Feast of St. Matthew is a wonderful way to remember his remarkable transformation and legacy as an apostle of Christ. As you gather with your family to reflect on his story and enjoy these fun and meaningful activities, you’ll create lasting memories and deepen your connection to the Gospel. I’m excited to journey with you as we celebrate not only this special day but many more throughout the liturgical year. Be sure to follow along this week as I share all the recipes and ideas you’ll need to celebrate the Feast of St. Matthew in your home!