Catholic Church

By Gayle Somers, Catholic Exchange - Traditionally, Catholics observe the third Sunday of Advent as “rose” Sunday, or “Gaudete” Sunday, which is Latin for “rejoice.” This is a beautiful reminder that although our preparation for the coming of the Lord has directed our attention inward, calling us to be ready to face our sin in an active way, the reason for this self-examination is one that should bring us boundless joy. Our Gospel reading helps us begin to see this.

By Rev. Peter M.J. Stravinskas, The Catholic Thing - I have written here earlier about Zechariah in relation to Advent. A second model of faith to consider in this season is his wife, the unassuming Elizabeth. Her humble nature comes out in the question she presents rhetorically at Mary’s Visitation: “And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Lk 1:43) In other words, who am I to be so honored?

Church Militant - Holy Communion is nourishment for our souls through the reception of the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ in the Most Holy Eucharist (see John 6:53). Christ mandated that we receive Him in the Eucharist for the life of our soul... There are numerous fruits of Holy Communion. The chief fruit, of course, is an intimate, interior union with Christ. Just as matrimony is the sacrament that weds a man and woman for life, the Eucharist is the sacrament that weds us to Christ.

By Eric Sammons, Crisis Magazine - Catholics have a duty to protect the innocent. This is particularly true of those who have a vocation to protect their families: husbands and fathers. A man who would allow his wife or child to be attacked without using force—even deadly force—to protect them has failed in one of his fundamental responsibilities. Women, too, are often called upon to protect themselves and others, and should be equipped to do so.