A hug from God


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"It's like getting a hug from God!"

That’s how Sharon Hagel describes the experience of receiving a hand-knitted ‘prayer shawl’. These beautiful wraps aren’t simply warm; they are also imbued with prayers for the comfort and assistance of whoever ends up wrapped in their folds. So whether the recipient is a grieving widow or a sick child, they get a card explaining how they were prayed for and how God is an ever-present help in times of trouble.

Loving Christ with greater intensity and depth

Scripture speaks of how the coming of Christ changed the lives of the shepherds, the magi and in Jesus’ lifetime – all those who encountered Him. Today, how is Jesus Christ changing our lives and calling us to love Him with greater intensity and depth? Bishop McGrattan shares on how we nurture this relationship and personal encounter with Christ. Read more

There’s a pandemic, but Christ’s work continues

“To serve the poor is to go to God.” Those wise words from St. Vincent de Paul, who died in 1660, sparked an international movement of lay Catholics who serve the economically-vulnerable. “We help everyone. If you call, we answer,” says Theo van Besouw, shepherding 900 Vincentians who feed those in need at Christmas—and year round. Read more

Tuesday, Dec.1, is the #GivingTuesday - a day to financially give to your charities, to where your heart is. Let us give thanks and give back to the communities and ministries that shape our souls.

Don't wait until Tuesday, you can give now.

You were the miracle

It’s a real tough world in Guererro, Mexico. It has always been challenging to survive there, but now with Covid, everything has gotten worse. Mike MacDonald, onsite coordinator of Mission Mexico gives an update of what it’s like to live in Mexico’s poorest region today, and how you can be a miracle. Read more

Being alone & being together

Aristotle said there are friendships of utility and convenience; there are also friends who bring us pleasure - being with them is enjoyable. But the philosopher really points to those who spur us on to being better. Wayne Ottenbreit writes about the kind of friend we are called to be, especially during these most difficult times. Read more

Jesse Tree, an Advent Devotion

Here is an Advent giveaway from Faithfully! A printable Advent devotional for children "Jesse Tree" - best for children age 5-9 years old. The Jesse Tree devotional will help children connect the custom of decorating Christmas trees to the events leading to Jesus’ birth, a great companion for the Advent season.

Written by parishioner Pat Grappolini, a retired teacher who occasionally teaches for the Calgary Catholic School District. Pat and her family have been parishioners of Holy Name Parish in Calgary.

Read one amazing story a day, from Dec. 1 to Dec. 24 and get inspired to create your own Jesse Tree.

Get "Jesse Tree" devotional for children | Create a Jesse Tree at home

Read Jesse Tree Devotional

"Little one, we knew you'd come"

As a mother of four beautiful children, Donna Green knows all about waiting - and the overflowing joy that follows after the birth of each child. In this article, Donna shares a story about an 8-year old who taught the world how precious life is, and what a precious gift from God each child really is. Read more

The door of hospitality

MT recalled how Sebastian, a grade 10 student in her school put Pope Francis’ vision for the Year of Mercy into practice by graciously holding the front entrance door of the school every morning for everyone. Read how this small and faithful gesture made a huge impact on her school and her community. Read more

The Calgary couple, who asked to remain anonymous, has been donating to Elizabeth House for 20 years because they sincerely believe in the cause. After having visited the house and researching the organization, they are certain it is a reputable, well-run charity by the Catholic Diocese of Calgary.

“There are a lot of charities that have big names out there. This is one that does good work, but maybe doesn’t get the same recognition as others,” said the donor.

“We also realize it’s a difficult time for charities. Realizing it’s a tough time for a lot of people, we are still called as Christians to share what we have.”

We see poverty. We see wars and acts of violence. We see unemployment and uncertainty. We see despair in the eyes of many, in these difficult times. We need to help others carry their burdens by praying in solidarity with them.

Be that light for others... pray with all your might for those in need. Rejoice with them, unite with their suffering, and persevere in prayer.

Here is one suggestion for a fruitful Christmas gift this year. Give others the gift of prayer, such as a Novena, a Rosary, or a Mass offering, and let them know that you care.

Download printable #iamblessed2020 Christmas Novena, Rosary and Mass Offering cards here

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