Carol or catechism?

JUST ONE MINUTE

Each December we celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas. “The best-known story about Bishop Nicholas concerns his charity toward a poor man who was unable to provide dowries for his three daughters of marriageable age. Rather than see them forced into prostitution, Nicholas secretly tossed a bag of gold through the poor man’s window on three separate occasions, thus enabling the daughters to be married. Over the centuries, in honor of St. Nicholas' generosity, the custom of gift-giving on the saint’s feast day developed. In English-speaking countries, St. Nicholas became, by a twist of the tongue, Santa Claus..." (see Franciscan Media for more). His generosity was truly transformational for the women and their families. The Christmas season is a time to explore generosity. God’s generosity in his self-gift in Jesus is truly ineffable.

Reflection: Take some time to visit with Jesus about generous, transformational giving this season. Explore with Jesus ways to make a transformational difference in someone’s life, like St. Nicholas did. 

— Deacon Danny Hartnedy

DAVE SAYS

Truth about money, family

WHAT'S NEW? 

Prayers for retired pope

At the end of his weekly general audience Dec. 28, Pope Francis asked for prayers for the 95-year-old retired pope. "I would like to ask all of you for a special prayer for emeritus Pope Benedict." He "is sustaining the church in silence," Pope Francis said. "Remember him. He is very sick."

JANUARY DATEBOOK

1: Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, New Year’s Day
6: Madrigal Christmas Celebration, Little Rock
8: Epiphany
9: Baptism of the Lord

QUOTE UNQUOTE

"When we trust too much in ourselves and not in God's grace, then the Evil One finds the door open. So, he organizes an expedition and takes possession of that house."

— Pope Francis, Dec. 14