In Italian the word “grande” means large. And when it comes to celebrating the season in Italy, the word aptly describes the way the birth of Christ is expressed. The celebrations are large. They’re dramatic and they’re also unique. Certainly, up and down and all-around Italy
Happy Advent. Or as we say in Italy, “Felice Avvento.” Deacon Dom and I are wishing you and yours a peaceful period of prayer, reflection, and joyful anticipation as we await the coming of the Savior of the world. We are spending the next two weeks,
Even if you won’t be able to visit Italy next year, here are some ways to bring Italy home for Jubilee 2025. The Jubilee Year of Hope begins on Christmas Eve, as Pope Francis opens the Holy Doors of St. Peter’s. If you’re one of
Location of the First Nativity Gives New Insight to Old Christmas Carols As I stood there overlooking the Rieti valley, in the hilltop town of Greccio, the lyrics to more than one much-loved Christmas carol came to mind. Away in a manger, no
Dear Friends, May you and your family find peace and joy in the birth of our tender Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ! I encourage you to take a few minutes during the Octave of Christmas and listen one or more of these beautiful renditions of
The Advent and Christmas seasons are very different for most of us this year due to the continued fallout from the Coronavirus. The slower pace, however, brings with it a mixture of pluses and minuses. On the plus side we are forced to slow down.
So here we are, well into the Advent season — a season barely recognized by the world any longer. It’s a season that is meant for reflection, silence and anticipation. But everywhere we go, the Christmas carols have been playing for weeks now, and the
