December, 2007
December 22, 2007
Christmas Gifts
Christmas morning 40 years ago, my 11 month old baby sister, Mary, crawled into a mountain-high pile of wrapping paper and ribbon that her 7 older siblings had excitedly flung aside and our mother had gathered in an effort for some sort of order. Mary was in the middle of the pile before any of us realized she had disappeared. A panicked voice called, “Where's Mary?”
What seemed an eternity, but was only seconds, Mary, head down like a batting ram, emerged from the other side of the pile smiling from ear to ear. To this day, that memory is what holds the meaning of Christmas. Gifts that count most for me are people. In their smiles I find hope and light and love. I don't need anything more.
Merry Christmas everyone.
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December 12, 2007
We are Light
Sunday I hurried my pup, Bailey, along her route because I was due at St. Catherine's Chapel to light a sea of vigil lights before the 4:30 p.m. Vespers.
Bailey and I walk everyday, whether it's 80 degrees above or below zero. The difference is that during these long dark, cold days, those of us who meet along the way barely recognize each other because we are so bundled up. I, for sure, am a sight to behold. We may lift a mittened hand and wave as we pass, but on the coldest days don't speak much through our fleeced scarves and ski masks.
Finally, at the chapel, people with microphones were busy making adjustments, musicians practiced, while readers set up stands. Candle after candle sparkled to life. Once lighted, however, they nearly flickered their little hearts out as we organizers continued our preparations.
I thought back to the people I passed earlier on my walk with Bailey. In my hurry was there someone to whom my silence affected their light this day?
There is in each of us a light. I am gratefully reminded to be mindful of that light and to become a person whose presence enables, not hinders, the light in others to glow strong and bright.
Possumus.
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December 5, 2007
Thoughts on Christmas
For those of you who look for support to avoid the consumerism mentality that usurps most minds this time of year, let me offer some help. First, know that you are not alone. If you find yourself weakening, continue reading here. For back-up, check out our Province website as well at www.csjstpaul.org
Here is a snippet of consumerism fact to carry with you.
Did you know that the average citizen of the U.S. consumes five times more than the average person living in Mexico, 10 times more than a person living in China, and 30 times more than a person living in India.
Remember, love cannot be bought in spite of what advertisers tell us. Many people find themselves depressed at the holidays, either because they’ve increased their debts or because they find themselves lonely or disappointed with family interactions in which gifts are substituted for real loving encounter. And the spiritual meaning of the holidays is lost in a frenzy of spending.
Resist the “consumer” label for yourself and all other human persons. The message of Christmas is that we are persons in community, possessed of God-given dignity that is not enhanced by wealth nor diminished by its lack. Be intentional about shaking off that false label “consumer” and step forward in truth as a person made in the image and likeness of God. Advent, the season of anticipation, and Christmas, the celebration of the birth of the Christ, ought not to be subsumed in frantic rushing about and overspending on meaningless gifts.
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December 2, 2007
A Peaceful and Prayerful Advent
It snowed this weekend, and now the early evening sky is turning dark. I love this time of the year. For most people it stirs the Christmas frenzy that lurks in them, but not for me.
This time of year turns my thoughts to Advent. Today I gathered with our Sisters and neighbors and friends at the College of St. Catherine’s chapel at 4:30 in the afternoon for Advent Vespers. For a breathtaking 45 minutes, we were wrapped in music and candlelight. Prayer rose like incense. For the past twenty years, this Vespers service is the only place I can escape the wild outside world of consumerism. Here in the stone chapel, we prepare for the real meaning of Christmas.
Join us on the next three Sundays of Advent for evening prayer to pray, sing, and reflect. Stay to enjoy light refreshments afterwards. All are welcome.
4:30-5:30 pm
December 2, 9, 16, 23
Our Lady of Victory Chapel, College of St. Catherine
2004 Randolph Ave, St. Paul, MN 55105
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