December 21 – Thomas, Apostle

Thomas is most known for his disbelief; however, he also made an important statement of faith (John 20:28). Learn about the life and legacy of St. Thomas. The “Show-Me” Saint Thomas, a name meaning “twin,” was sometimes called by the Greek name Didymus which means the same thing. He… Read More

November 29 – Dorothy Day

Dorothy Day strove to obey God in the midst of the violence and injustice around her. Read more about her life and legacy. The Activist When the San Francisco earthquake of 1906 left Dorothy Day’s father without work and penniless, the family moved into a tenement on Chicago’s south… Read More

November 30 – Andrew, Apostle

Although Andrew was the first disciple to follow Jesus, he is often overshadowed by the legacy of his brother, Peter. Read more about Andrew’s life and ministry. The “First-Called” Disciple Andrew was the first disciple called by Jesus (John 1:40). Andrew, the Protokletos (Greek for “first called”), was a… Read More

December 26 – St. Stephen, First Christian Martyr

Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is best known for his death. But he also lived an inspiring life of trust in Christ and dedication to the gospel. Read more about Stephen. The Martyr The story of St. Stephen can be found in Acts 6:1-8:3. He was one of the… Read More

December 27 – John, Apostle and Evangelist

John knew what it meant to follow Jesus. He witnessed the Transfiguration and stayed at the foot of the cross during Jesus’ crucifixion. Learn more John’s life of faith. The Favorite Disciple In the first century a.d., John was a very common Jewish name. It means “God is merciful”… Read More

Epiphany

Epiphany is a Greek word that means “manifestation” or “appearance.” The season points us to God’s love for all the world as revealed or manifested in Christ Jesus.  Learn more about this third season in the Christmas cycle. Three Kings Day Epiphany Activities… Read More

Easter

Easter is full of traditions and symbols. Use the following links to find out what they all mean. Christ is risen! Learn more about the meaning of Easter. Read and reflect on the following resources for adults and children. Easter Resources for Adults Easter Symbols The Paschal… Read More

Christmas: History and Origin

When did Christians begin to celebrate Christmas? Why is the holiday celebrated on December 25? Find out here. Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus the Christ. The word “Christmas” has its origin in late Old English Cristes Maesse, the Mass of Christ. Western Christians… Read More

The Christmas Cycle and the Twelve Days of Christmas

Use this devotional guide to reflect on the meaning of Christmas between December 25 and January 6. The Christmas cycle begins with the First Sunday in Advent. The word “advent” is derived from the Latin term, advenio, which means “coming,” or “arrival,” for example, the coming of good news,… Read More

Jesus’ Genealogy

Jesus’ genealogy is included in Matthew and Luke’s accounts of the Christmas story. Learn why genealogy was an important part of Jesus’ birth. The Gospels according to Matthew and Luke each provide a listing of Jesus’ ancestors, but in a different order. Matthew’s genealogy (1:1-17) begins with Abraham and… Read More