In this series we will explore practices that can help us to develop a space for grace in our lives. As I explain in my book, Braving the Thin Places, the acronym GRACE can help us if we: G—Grow in gratitude R—Release regrets to rest and reset A—Authentic availability and acceptance C—Cultivate radical hospitality E—Embrace simplicity This article will focus on the first practice of GRACE, which is growing in gratitude. Encouraging our students to […]
I remember once while waiting for a flight at the airport, a small child was doing some simple gymnastics in the terminal and repeatedly saying, “Mommy, look! Mommy, look!” The child wanted nothing more than for her mom to look upon her with approval. That’s what a blessing is: to look upon (or be looked upon) with approval. We bless our children and all other people when we let our gaze fall upon them with […]
As I continue my quest to encourage Catholics to sing more when we gather for faith formation and various other activities in our parishes, I would like to suggest a simple melody for singing Grace before mealtime. Rather than create a new melody, I suggest we use the melody from the traditional “Agnus Dei” and use the words of our traditional Grace Before Meals prayer: Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts which we are […]
This Sunday we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord. In Luke’s Gospel, we are told that the heavens opened and a voice was heard saying, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:22) In these words of blessing, we are being told beyond a shadow of a doubt that God our Father looks favorably upon his Son. What a blessing for a child to hear these words from a parent! Author […]
For years, my wife and I bless our Easter foods at home: bread which reminds us of the Bread of Life, meats which remind us that Jesus became flesh, dairy foods that remind us of the richness of the Kingdom, herbs and spices that remind us of the flavors of life including bitterness, and wine to symbolize the Holy Spirit! A blessed Easter to all!
In just a few short weeks, we will begin using the Third Edition of the Roman Missal. I do hope that you’ve taken advantage of the number of resources I’ve made available over these past few months! Here are a few more resources: A 4-page blessing/prayer service outside Mass done by LTP based on the Book of Blessings: Blessing of Missal. A blessing from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. It is for use on the First […]
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