The season of Lent is such a beautiful season! It is the time when we prepare our hearts for the most important events in a Christian's life, the death, and resurrection of Jesus. During Lent, we spend a lot of time reflecting on our sins and our need for a savior. We also spend time learning about what Easter is all about. Books were one of the best ways to help my children to prepare their hearts for the coming of Easter. We kept our favorite Lenten books in a box in the attic. On Ash Wednesday, I would bring in the box of books and place them in a basket in the living room. The kids were always so excited to see these books that had been stored away! Each child would grab their favorite and for the next couple of hours, there would be complete silence as they looked through the books. The books were a powerful teaching tool to help my children understand what Easter is really about. Today I am sharing some of my favorite Lenten children's books that your family can use during the season of Lent. I hope they are a blessing! Twas the Season of Lent by Glenys Nellist Y'all know by now that Glenys Nellist is one of my favorite children's books authors! I love her "Twas" series and am so happy that she has just released her latest in the series, Twas the Season of Lent ! 'Twas the Season of Lent is a 40-day devotional and storybook that explores the life, words, and works of Jesus and encourages families to draw closer to God during the Lenten Season. This book focuses on Jesus's mission to the least, the lost, and the lonely, with each story and accompanying prayer prompt encouraging children to try to be more like Jesus and to do what God calls them to. The Easter Story by Brian Wildsmith Brian Wildsmith's books are some of my favorites. His illustrations are absolutely gorgeous! The Easter Story tells the story of the last days of Jesus' life, the crucifixion, and the resurrection, as seen through the eyes of a small donkey. It is such a sweet story! The Donkey That No One Could Ride by Anthony DeStefano Anthony DeStefano begins his telling of Christ’s triumphant entry by introducing a young donkey who has yet to realize his important mission. The lowly creature believes he can do nothing noble, but that’s before he meets the Master... Make Room: A Child's Guide to Lent and Easter by Laura Alary. Make Room presents Lent as a special time for creating a welcoming space for God. This unique book integrates themes of hospitality and self-giving that echo Jesus’ life. Make Room invites children to wonder about the story, to encounter Lent with all their senses, and to experience activities in Lent as part of a life of discipleship. The Story of Easter by Alexa Tewkesbury Alexa Tewkesbury offers a timeless retelling of the Easter story. The story moves from Palm Sunday to the Last Supper, crucifixion, and resurrection. Your children will learn about the Easter story in a memorable, engaging way, and gain a new understanding of why we celebrate Easter. Humphrey's First Palm Sunday by Carol Heyer Humphrey the Camel is part of a traveling caravan, thinking up ways to become the leader of the pack. As the caravan makes its way to Jerusalem, they witness Jesus entering the city. Humphrey is delighted to see Jesus. Beautiful and engaging, this book is a wonderful way to introduce the events of Palm Sunday. The Berenstain Bears and the Easter Story by Mike Berenstain My children loved the Berenstain Bears! The book teaches that Easter is more than candy and egg hunts as you read about the Bear cubs at Sunday school learning about Jesus’ resurrection and salvation. The Very First Easter by Paul L. Maier Follow along with Christopher, a ten-year-old boy who only wants the real stories of Christian holidays. His family sits him down and reads him the story of Easter straight from the Gospel of Luke.

As the air turns colder and the days grow shorter, a rush seems to overtake everything around us. The "Christmas season" barrels in right after Halloween, all bows and bustle, sweeping us into a whirlwind of to-do lists, shopping carts, and holiday obligations. Before we know it, we’re hurtling full speed toward December 25th, exhausted, frantically trying to wrap up the holiday season before it’s really even begun. But, deep down, many of us feel it, that nagging sense that something is missing from the way we approach this time of year. The pressure to go, do, and buy creates a season that’s often a blur of stress and noise, leaving us feeling worn out and disconnected from the quiet beauty that this time of year could hold. What if there was a different way to enter these upcoming weeks? What if we reclaimed the seasons of Advent and Christmas  as two distinct but deeply connected times of preparation and celebration? Advent: A Season of Quiet Preparation The season of Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and is the time set aside to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. We prepare for the birth of Christ on Christmas Day but also Christ’s second coming when he will set the world to rights.  Advent is all about slowing down, waiting, and longing for the fulfillment of God’s purposes. The season of Advent marks the beginning of the Christian year. It is a season that invites us to pause, to quiet our hearts, and to enter a time of preparation for the coming of Christ. Advent doesn’t demand that we start celebrating right away. Instead, it calls us to prepare, to wait with intention, and to experience the quiet anticipation of a promise not yet fulfilled. Rather than diving into decorations and festivities, Advent gives us space to reflect on why we celebrate. It’s a gentle shift from the hurried rush we often associate with “the holidays.” We prepare, yes, but we prepare inwardly. We reflect on the hope of Christ’s coming, allowing our hearts to enter a space of longing and waiting. Imagine, instead of racing toward December 25th, easing into the season, lighting a candle for each week of Advent, saying a prayer of anticipation, and letting the meaning of Christmas gradually settle into your spirit. It’s a time to slow down, focus on what’s to come, and make room in our hearts for the joy that awaits. Advent shows us that there is holiness in waiting and that preparation can be peaceful, reflective, and filled with the quiet hope of promises yet to be fulfilled. Christmas: A Season of Joyful Celebration Then, when the preparatory season of Advent is fulfilled, we enter Christmas with a heart made ready to celebrate, full of expectation and longing finally fulfilled on Christmas Day. Christmas, as it was traditionally celebrated, doesn’t end on December 25th—it begins  there. The Christmas season, lasting 12 days until Epiphany, is a time of true celebration. All the preparation of Advent finds its fulfillment in these days, which are meant to be a joyful, extended feast. When we let Christmas begin on December 25th, it becomes more than a single day of celebration—it unfolds as a season of wonder, joy, and thanksgiving. It’s an invitation to fully enjoy the gifts of friends, family, food, and fellowship without the underlying rush to wrap it all up in a single day. Christmas becomes a time to embrace the light that has come into the world, to truly enter into the “good news of great joy” that Advent has prepared us for. The Beauty of a Double Season When we see Advent and Christmas as two distinct but beautifully connected seasons, it opens the door to a different experience—one that is more restful, more meaningful, and ultimately more fulfilling. Embracing this rhythm allows us to savor each season for what it truly is: Advent as a time of preparation, expectation, and hope, and Christmas as a time of great joy and celebration. Imagine the difference this could make: Instead of starting Christmas Day exhausted and burnt out, we could begin it having truly prepared our hearts, feeling renewed, having let our hearts fully experience both the waiting and the wonder. This is why I created the companion guides The Liturgical Home: Advent  and the newly released The Liturgical Home: Christmas —resources that walk through each of these seasons in a way that feels intentional and life-giving. My hope is that they guide you and your family into a slower, more sacred experience of both Advent and Christmas, embracing each season in its fullness and finding rest in the quiet spaces we often miss. The Liturgical Home: Advent and The Liturgical Home: Christmas , you’ll find everything you need to celebrate these beautiful seasons. Designed for individuals and families alike, these guides weave together history, daily devotions, and beloved traditions and recipes from around the world, making it easy to honor Advent and Christmas in meaningful ways at home. Inside, you’ll discover: Daily devotions and prayers to guide you through each day of Advent or Christmas The stories behind cherished Advent and Christmas 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 and Christmas, 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 these special seasons and find, in its rhythm, a deeper and more meaningful way to celebrate.

Did you know that the birth of Jesus is so amazing, so life-changing that a whole season of feasting and celebration is dedicated to it? Christmas, as it was traditionally celebrated, doesn’t end on December 25th—it begins  there. The Christmas season, lasting 12 days until Epiphany, is a time of true celebration. All the preparation of Advent finds its fulfillment in these days, which are meant to be a joyful, extended feast. When we let Christmas begin on December 25th, it becomes more than a single day of celebration—it unfolds as a season of wonder, joy, and thanksgiving. It’s an invitation to fully enjoy the gifts of friends, family, food, and fellowship without the underlying rush to wrap it all up in a single day. Christmas becomes a time to embrace the light that has come into the world, to truly enter into the “good news of great joy” that Advent has prepared us for. If you’d like to try celebrating Christmas as it was intended, The Liturgical Home - Christmas is for you! I created this guide to equip you with everything needed to celebrate the beauty of the 12 Days of Christmas right in your own home. Here’s what you’ll find inside: 🕯️ Introduction to the Church Seasons : Learn about the liturgical year and the significance of Christmas in our spiritual journey. 🕯️ Why We Celebrate Christmas : Dive into the heart of this season and explore its meaning and purpose. 🕯️ Traditions from Around the World : Discover beautiful, time-honored practices like the Yule Log and the Christmas Crib, with insight into how these customs came to be and how you can incorporate them into your family’s celebration. 🕯️ Special Days and Feasts : From the Feast of St. Stephen to The Feast of the Nativity, explore the history, traditions, and recipes associated with each unique celebration throughout Christmas. 🕯️ Daily Family Devotions : Find beautiful daily devotions and prayers to guide your family through this holy season. 🕯️ Traditional Recipes : Enjoy authentic recipes from around the world, like the Buche de Noel, a chocolate sponge cake made to look like a Yule Log or Lamb’s Wool, a traditional hot drink made with apples and spices, perfect for creating memorable moments with loved ones. I hope this book blesses you and your family with a season of peace, joy, and togetherness. May it be a treasured companion as you walk through Christmas! Click HERE to order a copy and begin your journey throught the 12 Days of Christmas!

Even though we find ourselves in the heart of winter, the story of Jesus’ life continues to unfold, offering us hope, light, and anticipation. The twelve days of Christmas may have drawn to a close, but Epiphanytide is not so much an end as it is a continuation—a new chapter in the celebration of Christ’s birth. While Christmas begins with the revelation of God’s love through the birth of Jesus, Epiphanytide carries forward this theme of revelation. It is a season to marvel at how God makes Himself known to us through Jesus Christ. From the visit of the Magi to the miracle at Cana, each moment invites us to reflect on God’s plan of salvation and His intimate presence in our lives. In this sacred time, the Church calls us to pause, rest, and reflect. While the world often rushes into ordinary routines, Epiphanytide offers a countercultural rhythm—a slower pace to meditate on the ways God reveals Himself and to carry forward the joy of the Christmas season. What is Epiphanytide? Epiphanytide, or the Season of Epiphany, takes its name from the Greek word “epiphaneia,” meaning “manifestation.” An epiphany reveals the essential nature or meaning of something, often in a sudden and striking way. During this season, we celebrate the pivotal moments when Jesus’ identity as the Son of God is revealed: The Visit of the Magi : God revealed Himself to the Gentiles, represented by the Wise Men, who followed the star to worship Jesus. The Baptism of Jesus : The Trinity was revealed as the Father’s voice affirmed Jesus, and the Spirit descended like a dove. The Wedding at Cana : Jesus performed His first public miracle, revealing His glory. The Presentation in the Temple : Jesus was proclaimed the Messiah by Simeon and Anna. Each of these events highlights a different aspect of who Jesus is—King, Savior, Son of God, and the Light of the World. Together, they invite us to draw closer to Him and reflect on the profound truth that God reveals Himself to us in ways we can see, touch, and experience. Why Are There Two Ordinary Times? Epiphanytide is the first of two Ordinary Times in the Church calendar. These two seasons serve as the "bookends" to the major liturgical celebrations of Christ’s life, such as Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost. The First Ordinary Time (Epiphany) Occurs between the Christmas season and the season of Lent. Focuses on the early ministry of Jesus, including His baptism, the calling of the disciples, and His first miracles. The Second Ordinary Time Begins after Pentecost and lasts until the start of Advent. Centers on the teachings and parables of Jesus and the growth of the Church. Both seasons share a common purpose: to encourage spiritual growth and discipleship in the "ordinary" rhythm of daily life. The term "ordinary" comes from "ordinal," meaning "ordered," and does not imply anything mundane. Epiphanytide: Ordinary Time with a Purpose What sets Epiphanytide apart is its specific focus on the revelations of Christ —moments when Jesus’ divine identity is made known. Key themes of this season include: Revelation : God’s self-disclosure through Jesus Christ. Light : Emphasis on Christ as the Light of the World, shining into the darkness. Reflection : A quieter, contemplative time that bridges the joy of Christmas with the penitence of Lent. As we move from the feasting of Christmas into the quieter rhythm of Epiphanytide, we are invited to consider how God’s revelations shape our daily lives. How do we carry the light of Christ into the ordinary moments of our days? How does His presence transform us? A Season of Wonder and Anticipation Epiphanytide is a beautiful season filled with meaning and rich traditions. It bridges the joy of Christmas with the solemnity of Lent, offering us time to savor the revelations of Christ before we begin the journey toward the cross. Let us approach this season with open hearts, ready to embrace the wonder and awe of God’s continuing work in our lives. Follow along as I share the history, recipes, and traditions that make Epiphanytide a season of beauty and light. How will you celebrate Epiphanytide in your home? Let’s discover the beauty of this season together!

Happy first day of January! This is such an exciting month in the Liturgical Year as we finish the celebratory 12 Days of Christmas and kick off the season of Epiphany! I can’t wait to celebrate it with you! Let's get started! January 1st - The Feast of the Circumcision and Holy Name of Jesus January 5th - Twelfth Night January 6th - The Feast of the Epiphany January 12th - The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord January 18th - The Feast of the Confession of St. Peter, the Apostle January 25th - The Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, the Apostle Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate every special day this month, including the history, recipes, and traditions! Helpful Links: If you'd like a calendar of the entire liturgical year, here's a PDF printout: Or a physical calendar you can hang on your wall: The Liturgical Home Liturgical Calendar for 202 4-25   Current Season: 12 Days of Christmas and then Epiphany Celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas The Season of Epiphany January 1st - The Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus Make Coventry God Cakes for the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus. The first feast of the month is The Feast of the Circumcision and Holy Name of Jesus, where we celebrate the circumcision and naming of Jesus when he was eight days old. January 5th - Twelfth Night Twelfth Night is the 12th and final day of Christmas closing out the season of Christmas, and ushering us into the season of Epiphany with the Feast of Epiphany. Twelfth Night or the Eve of Epiphany January 6th - The Feast of the Epiphany Make a Three King's Cake for Epiphany The special day where we celebrate the arrival of the Wise Men at the home of the Jesus. It is considered an “epiphany” because it revealed that God’s plan of salvation was for all nations, tribes, and tongues. Twelfth Night or the Eve of Epiphany January 12th - The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord On this day we celebrate the baptism of Jesus and we reaffirm our baptisms as well. The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord January 18th - The Feast of the Confession of St. Peter, the Apostle Today we recognize the pivotal moment when Jesus is revealed as the Messiah, the Son of God. The Confession of St. Peter January 25th - The Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, the Apostle Make oatmeal cookies and have them fall like scales from your eyes. Today we celebrate the radical encounter that Saul had on the road to Damascus where he met the risen Savior. The Conversion of St. Paul Follow along as I share everything you’ll need to celebrate every special day this month, including the history, recipes, and traditions!

Each year, the Christian community observes the Feast of St. Matthias, a day set aside to honor the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot following his betrayal of Jesus Christ.  St. Matthias's story is found in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:15-26). After the Ascension of Jesus, the remaining eleven apostles, led by Peter, decided to fill the vacancy left by Judas. The criteria for Judas's replacement were specific: it had to be someone who had accompanied Jesus and the disciples from the time of John the Baptist until Jesus’s Ascension. Two men were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. The apostles prayed for divine guidance and cast lots, and Matthias was chosen, restoring the group to the symbolic number of twelve. After his selection as an apostle, little is known about Matthias’s life and ministry. However, various traditions hold that he preached in Judea and then carried the Gospel to other areas, including Ethiopia.  Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Matthias Read Acts 1:15-26 Tradition has it that St. Matthias spread the gospel in Ethiopia, so make Dabo Kolo —a crunchy, spicy snack that is common in Ethiopia. Since St. Matthias was chosen by casting lots, “cast lots” to see who gets to help make the Dabo Kalo.

Tomorrow is St. Valentine’s Day! It is the day that we celebrate and remember a priest who was martyred for his faith. St. Valentine was a priest in Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. Emperor Claudius was also known as “Claudius the Cruel” and devoted his reign to long and bloody wars. Emperor Claudius noticed that it was increasingly difficult to get soldiers to join his military. He believed that the men were reluctant to fight because they did not want to leave their wives and families. A simple solution for Emperor Claudius was to ban all engagements and marriages in Rome. St. Valentine strongly disagreed with Claudius and he defied the emperor by continuing to perform marriages in secret. Eventually, St. Valentine’s actions were made known to the emperor and Claudius ordered him to be put to death. St. Valentine was arrested and brought before the Prefect of Rome where he was beaten to death and beheaded on February 14, around the year 270 A.D. A legend concerning St. Valentine is that while he was in jail, he became friends with his jailer’s daughter. He left her a note saying goodbye to her and signed it “From Your Valentine.” It is so important to remember why we celebrate this man. We celebrate him because of his love and faithfulness to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We remember him for his willingness to stand for righteousness in the midst of evil and persecution. So have fun with those around you! Give flowers or candy or notes of love. Do all that you would normally do but remember why and give thanks for such a powerful model of how we should live our lives!  St. Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies 1 cup butter 1 1/2 cups sifted confectioner’s sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon almond flavoring 2 1/2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cream of tartar Icing: Confectioner’s sugar Red food coloring or beetroot powder Whole milk Cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg and extracts. Sift flour, soda, and cream of tartar together. Add to butter mixture. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill overnight. Roll out and cut into heart shapes. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Divide the confectioner's sugar into bowls, depending on however many shades of pink you want. Add varying amounts of coloring to the bowls. Add just enough milk to each bowl to make a thick, spreadable icing.

Homemade spiral candles. Candlemas, celebrated on February 2nd, holds a special place in the hearts of many Christians, marking the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary. When Jesus was presented in the temple, Simeon gathered him into his arms, lifted him to the Lord, and prophesied that Jesus was "A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” Luke 2:32 Since Jesus was revealed as the “light of the world,” candles have played a huge role in the celebration of this feast. On this day, churches would bless all of their candles for the next year. The congregants would also gather all of their candles and bring them to the local church to be blessed in a special service known as Candlemas (Candle Mass). For Candlemas this year, try crafting your own beeswax candles.   Making your own candles is a fun activity that connects you with centuries of Christian tradition and the joyous community celebrating this feast worldwide. Every time we light our candles, we are visibly reminded that Jesus is the Light of the World. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own candles for Candlemas using silicone molds and beeswax pellets. Making Your Own Candles For Candlemas Materials Needed: Beeswax Pellets These are my favorite. They melt so easily and dry quickly. Silicone Candle Molds Come with two spiral silicone molds, wicks, and clips. Wax Melting Handled Pot I love this pot because the wax melts quickly and it has a handle and a spout which makes it so much less messy than a saucepan. Saucepan ( Make sure it's larger than your wax pot) Stirring Spoon ( I used a metal spoon which made clean-up easy) Scissors Masking Tape Instructions: 1. Preparing the Molds: Cut a length of wick that is 2 inches longer than the mold. Place the wick inside the silicone mold, leaving an inch of wick coming out of the top and the bottom. Place strips of masking tape around the bottom, middle, and top of the mold to keep it closed. 2. Melting the Beeswax: Fill a saucepan with around 3 inches of water and place it on the stove. Turn the eye to medium-high or high. Put beeswax pellets in the handled pot or double boiler and place them on top of the larger saucepan. Stir occasionally until the beeswax completely melts. 3. Pouring the Wax: Once melted, carefully pour the beeswax into your prepared molds. Fill them up to the desired level. Center the wick and secure it at the top with the hairpin that is provided in the kit. 4.  Cooling: At first, I placed my candles in a tall cup so they were upright. When the tops were solid-looking, I laid them on their sides in the fridge. Avoid moving the molds during this time to ensure a smooth finish. Candles should be ready in 2-4 hours. 5. Unmolding: Once the wax is completely set, gently peel away the masking tape strips and open the silicone mold. If you face resistance, placing the mold in the fridge for a few minutes can help. 6. Finishing Touches: Trim any excess wick length at the bottom of the candle. Trim the top wick to about ¼ inch above the wax. Your candle is now ready for Candlemas! Integrating Candles into Your Candlemas Celebration When Candlemas comes, place the candles you made on your dining or kitchen table. Before dinner or during your evening devotion, use my favorite Liturgy for the Blessing of Candles from Catechesis Books. May your Candlemas be filled with light and peace. 🕯️✨

Candlemas, celebrated on February 2nd, is more formally known as the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Temple. It marks the end of the Christmas cycle and serves as a bridge to the coming season of Lent. Also known as the Feast of the Purification of Mary, this day holds beautiful traditions worldwide, including the lighting of candles, symbolic blessings, and the joyful sharing of special foods. In France, Candlemas is called La Chandeleur , and one of the most beloved traditions is making and eating crêpes. But have you ever wondered why this thin, golden treat is connected to this special feast? The Symbolism of Crêpes on Candlemas Crêpes are more than just a delicious dish—they are steeped in symbolic meaning tied to the season of Epiphany and the themes of Candlemas. The Light of the World: Crêpes, with their round, golden shape, are said to resemble the sun. As we light candles on Candlemas to celebrate Jesus revealed as the “light of the world” (Luke 2:32), crêpes serve as a symbolic nod to this light. Their warm color reminds us of the growing light that brings hope in the darkness of winter and the revelation of Christ to the nations. The Return of Spring: In Europe, February 2nd is about halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, marking a turning point toward brighter days. The tradition of making crêpes reflects a celebration of hope and renewal, much like the agricultural communities that once relied on their stored grain during the cold months. Eating crêpes was a way to use this stored grain and mark the coming of new growth and abundance. A Family Tradition: In France, Candlemas is a time for family gatherings and fun. While flipping crêpes, a popular tradition is to hold a coin in one hand while flipping the crêpe with the other. If you successfully catch the crêpe in the pan, it’s said to bring prosperity for the year ahead. This lighthearted practice underscores the joy and hopefulness that Candlemas brings. How to Celebrate Candlemas with Crêpes If you’re looking to bring the tradition of Candlemas crêpes into your home, it’s simple, meaningful, and a lot of fun! Here are some easy ways to celebrate: Gather Your Family in the Kitchen: Spend time together mixing the batter, flipping crêpes, and sharing laughter. Let each family member try flipping a crêpe for prosperity—just be prepared for some creative landings! Set a Candlelit Table: Since Candlemas is all about light, light candles during your meal to create a warm and peaceful atmosphere. This can also serve as a time of reflection and gratitude. Enjoy Sweet and Savory Crêpes: Traditionally, French families enjoy both sweet and savory crêpes. Try filling yours with ingredients like ham and cheese for dinner and whipped cream and fruit for dessert. Reflect on the Feast’s Meaning: While enjoying your meal, take a moment to read Luke 2:22-40 as a family. Reflect on Simeon’s words as he recognizes Jesus as the “light for revelation to the Gentiles” and the joy of seeing God’s promises fulfilled. the recipe -

The final feast day in the season of Epiphany is the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Temple. The Church also calls it the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary or Candlemas. This feast lands on February 2nd, falling exactly 40 days after Christmas. It wraps up the full celebration of Jesus’ infancy narratives from Christmas through the Epiphany season. It is the final epiphany where Jesus is revealed as the “light for revelation to the Gentiles” and our Savior. The Feast of the Presentation is one of the oldest feast days from the ancient Christian Church, dating back to at least the fourth century. The pilgrim Egeria recorded its celebration in Jerusalem in the 380s: But certainly, the Feast of the Purification is celebrated here with the greatest honour. On this day there is a procession to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher; all go in procession, and all things are done in order with great joy, just as at Easter. All the priests preach, and also the bishop, always treating of that passage of the Gospel where, on the fortieth day, Joseph and Mary brought the Lord into the Temple, and Simeon and Anna the prophetess, the daughter of Famuhel, saw Him, and of the words which they said when they saw the Lord, and of the offerings which the parents presented.  The Presentation in Scripture On this special day, we celebrate the arrival of the Holy Family to the temple in Jerusalem, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke. This event is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, where, according to the Law of Moses, a woman was considered unclean for 40 days after giving birth to a son. After this period, she was to present herself in the temple for purification and to present her firstborn to God (Exodus 13:12-15 and Leviticus 12). They were required to give an offering for the purification of Mary and the birth of their first child, and we are told that the offering was a pair of young pigeons, the offering of the poor. Simeon and Anna Luke then goes on to tell us that there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. The Holy Spirit had promised him he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Moved then by the Holy Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When he saw Jesus, he recognized him as the promised Savior. He took the infant Jesus into his arms, lifted him up to God, and uttered the most beautiful prophecy:  “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace,According to Your word;For my eyes have seen Your salvationWhich You have prepared before the face of all peoples,A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles,And the glory of Your people Israel.”(Luke 2:29-32) The Song of Simeon has always had a prominent role in our liturgical worship. It is often referred to by its Latin name, Nunc Dimittis , which comes from the song’s opening words and means “Now you let depart.” It has been used since the 4th century in Christian services of evening worship such as Vespers (or Evensong ) and Compline . There also was a prophet named Anna in the temple. She was a widow and never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she thanked God and spoke about the child to all, looking forward to Jerusalem’s redemption. Traditions and Celebrations Around the World The Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple is the last feast day of the Christmas cycle. Depending on the country, some put away their Christmas decorations and burn their Christmas greenery on Twelfth Night. However, other Christians around the world put the last of their Christmas decorations away and burn their Christmas greenery on this day.  Since Jesus was revealed as the “light of the world,” candles have played a considerable role in celebrating this feast. On this day, churches would bless all their candles for the following year. The congregants also gathered all their candles and brought them to the local church to be blessed in a special service called Candlemas (Candle Mass). Germany In Germany, families would hold a feast, and every family member would light a new candle before the manger of a nativity scene. After a time of prayer, the father would cut a branch from the Christmas tree and hand it to each child. The Christmas tree had been decorated with candies and nuts and the children were allowed to eat these goodies at this time. Scotland In Scotland, children would bring candles to school. The children also raised money, which they would contribute to buy sweets for the class. Whoever brought the most money was “Candlemas King or Queen” for the day.  Mexico In Mexico, the person who found the bean in the Epiphany cake, or Rosca de Reyes, became the godparent of Jesus on Candlemas. Their job was to dress the “niño dios” (an image of the Christ child in the form of a doll) with richly decorated clothes. They would then bring the doll to church to be blessed. A large family feast followed. The person who had found the bean in their Rosca de Reyes on Epiphany was in charge of making all of the tamales for the Candlemas feast!  France In France, the day is called La Chandeleur, and the traditional food is crêpes. The crêpes, with their golden color and circular form, recall the sun’s shape, evoking spring’s return after a harsh and cold winter. While making the crêpes, people traditionally hold a coin in their dominant hand and a crêpe pan in the other. They flip the crêpe into the air, and if they catch the crêpe in the pan, their family will be prosperous for the rest of the year.  England In England, Candlemas was the day when people predicted the weather. Farmers believed that the remainder of winter would be the opposite of the weather on Candlemas Day.  An old English song goes: If Candlemas be fair and bright,Come winter, have another flight;If Candlemas bring clouds and rain,Go winter, and come not again. This practice led to the folklore behind “Groundhog’s Day,” which falls on Candlemas Day and is celebrated in the United States and Canada. In France, they celebrate the day by eating crepes. Ways to Celebrate Read Luke 2:22-40  Since Jesus is the light of the world, do something with candles: make candles, light all of the candles in your house, or put all of your candles on your dining room table and have a feast. Let whoever got the bean in the Epiphany cake dress the baby Jesus figurine you have in your nativity set. Have a huge tamale feast! Eat crêpes! Stay tuned for my favorite Candlemas Crepe recipe!

Liturgical Living refers to the rhythms and rituals of worship that are rooted in the Church’s traditions. It’s about following a set pattern of prayers, readings, and ceremonies that connect us to the life of Christ and the history of our faith. In Christian practice, being liturgical means participating in the rich, structured forms of worship that have been passed down through generations, helping us to live out our faith in a deeply intentional and communal way. As we journey through life, many of us feel a deep desire to connect our everyday routines with the rhythms of our faith. We crave more than just a Sunday service—we want our faith to breathe life into our homes, our families, and our daily actions. That’s where liturgical living comes in. Liturgical living is about intentionally aligning your home life with the sacred seasons and rhythms of the Church. It’s the practice of bringing the beauty and tradition of the Church’s liturgy into your daily routines, making every day an opportunity to grow closer to God and to live out your faith in tangible ways. Getting Ready for the Feast of St. Nicholas The Heart of Liturgical Living At its core, liturgical living is about living in sync with the Church calendar. It means allowing the liturgical year to guide your family’s practices, celebrations, and even the ebb and flow of your day-to-day life. From Advent to Easter, and from the feast days of saints to the solemn days of fasting, the Church calendar offers us a rich tapestry of moments to honor, reflect, and celebrate. But it’s not just about following a schedule; it’s about letting the rhythms of the Church shape your heart and home. Liturgical living invites us to bring the sacred into the ordinary—whether it’s through a simple prayer before meals, setting up an Advent wreath, or creating a special tradition for a feast day. It’s about making space in our busy lives to acknowledge the presence of God in all things. Veiling Crosses for Good Friday Why Liturgical Living Matters In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to let the weeks blur together, to rush from one thing to the next without taking time to reflect on the sacredness of each moment. Liturgical living helps us to slow down and to be intentional about the way we spend our time. It’s a way to ground ourselves and our families in something greater than the daily grind. For many, liturgical living becomes a way to pass down the faith to the next generation. It gives our children tangible ways to experience and participate in the life of the Church, helping them to understand that our faith is not just something we do on Sundays, but something that infuses every part of our lives. Lighting an Advent Wreath How to Start Liturgical Living You don’t need to overhaul your life to start living liturgically. Begin with simple practices that resonate with you and your family. Maybe it’s lighting a candle and saying a prayer each evening during Advent, or cooking a special meal on a feast day. You might start by creating a small prayer corner in your home, where your family can gather to pray and reflect. Over time, as these practices become part of your routine, you can add more elements. The key is to start small and to choose practices that are meaningful and manageable for you and your family. Praying the Daily Office Bringing It All Together Liturgical living isn’t about being perfect or following a strict set of rules. It’s about allowing the love and life of Christ to permeate your home, your family, and your everyday routines. It’s a journey of growing closer to God and to one another, step by step, season by season. As you explore this way of living, remember that liturgical living is as unique as each family. There’s no one “right” way to do it. What matters most is that you’re making space for the sacred in your life, and allowing the rhythms of the Church to guide you along the way. So, whether you’re just beginning or have been on this journey for years, know that each small step you take is a beautiful offering to God and a way to draw closer to the heart of your faith.

The Conversion of St. Paul by Caravaggio The Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, celebrated on January 25th, honors one of the most remarkable transformations in Christian history. Saul of Tarsus, once a fierce persecutor of the early Church, became St. Paul, one of its most ardent defenders, missionaries, and theologians. The story of his conversion is a powerful testimony to the transformative power of God and the incredible truth that no one is beyond redemption. Walking Through the Story: Saul’s Conversion In the book of Acts (9:1-22), we find the powerful account of Saul’s journey to Damascus. Saul was a devout Jew, deeply committed to his faith, but his zeal led him to fiercely persecute Christians. He sought to arrest and imprison anyone who followed "the Way," the early name for the Christian faith. Saul’s story begins even earlier in Acts, at the stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In Acts 7:58, we learn that Saul was present, and the witnesses who stoned Stephen laid their cloaks at his feet. This act was a sign of Saul’s authority and approval of the execution. As Stephen prayed for his persecutors with his dying breath, Saul’s heart remained hardened against the followers of Jesus, and his determination to crush the Christian movement only grew. One day, as Saul was traveling to Damascus, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly surrounded him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice: "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" (Acts 9:4) When Saul asked who was speaking, the voice replied: "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do." (Acts 9:5-6) Blinded by this divine encounter, Saul was led into Damascus, where he fasted and prayed for three days. Meanwhile, the Lord appeared to a disciple named Ananias and instructed him to visit Saul. Ananias was understandably hesitant—Saul’s reputation for persecuting Christians preceded him! Yet Ananias obeyed, and when he laid his hands on Saul, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes. He regained his sight, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and was baptized. From that moment, Saul became Paul, one of Christianity’s greatest evangelists. He founded churches throughout Asia Minor and Europe, wrote thirteen of the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, and became a central figure in the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles. The Significance of St. Paul’s Conversion The conversion of St. Paul is a profound example of God’s transformative power. It reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Saul, once a zealous persecutor, became an instrument of God’s mission to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. His story gives hope to all who feel unworthy of God’s love or unsure of their ability to serve Him. Paul’s encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus also illustrates the deeply personal nature of faith. Jesus didn’t merely call out Saul’s actions—He made it clear that to persecute His followers was to persecute Him directly. This intimate connection between Christ and His Church has profound implications for how we see our relationship with Him and one another. Additionally, St. Paul’s writings have shaped Christian theology in unparalleled ways. From his profound reflections on grace and faith in Romans to his poetic hymn on love in 1 Corinthians 13, Paul’s letters continue to guide and inspire the Church today. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul 1. Read and Reflect on Acts 9:1-22. Spend time as a family reading the account of Saul’s conversion in Acts. Reflect on the themes of grace, obedience, and transformation. Discuss how God might be calling each of you to serve Him in your unique ways. 2. Add the Collect to Your Daily Prayers . Incorporate this prayer into your devotions to honor St. Paul and ask for the grace to follow his example of faith: O God, by the preaching of your apostle Paul you have caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world: Grant, we pray, that we, having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, may show ourselves thankful to you by following his holy teaching; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. 3. Celebrate with a Sweet Reminder of God’s Grace. Get creative with a family activity that brings the story of Saul’s conversion to life. Make cookies and give each child two cookies to hold in front of their eyes as you read the story aloud. When you get to the part where the scales fall from Saul’s eyes, have them remove the cookies the cookies and reflect on the sweetness of God’s grace in their lives as they eat the cookies! So fun! Here’s one of our all time favorite cookie recipes: the recipe -