During the darkest periods of history, quite often a small number of men and women, scattered throughout the world,
have been able to reverse the course of historical evolution.This was only possible because they hoped beyond all hope.
–Roger Schultz, Abbot of Taize
1st Reading, from The Soul of Christmas by Thomas Moore
The Solstice is a time of incubation, change and finally of renewal or rebirth. Many people today feel an underlying anxiety due to world events and the challenges of getting along in a complicated world. Solstice offers symbolic hope that there may be a turn in the ‘weather.’ The turn could take us to more genuine peace, justice, and community—key values in the Jesus teachings and qualities we expect in a renewed life turning more toward the light than the dark.
Reflection Questions
Prayer on the Way to the Labyrinth
O Radiant Dawn,
Creator of Darkness and Light,
Be with us as we walk the labyrinth this Winter Solstice night.
Guide our feet on the path to peace and protect us on our way.
As we seek the center, we long for the light that will never fade.
We make this prayer in the name of Jesus, the Light.Amen.
By Lucia Ferrara
As a wife, mother, sister daughter, etc., I play many roles every day. I refer to this as my “juggling act.” Are you a juggler, too? Jugglers need a fine sense of balance. How does one achieve such balance?
“The Eucharist: The Gift That Keeps on Giving … and giving, and giving.”
By Fr. Ron Will, CPPS
This is my fourth reflection on the Eucharistic Prayers. During this year devoted to the Eucharistic Revival, I am reflecting on the words that we hear in the Eucharistic Prayers when we celebrate Mass.