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.
An Assembling God’s Puzzle video
By Fr. Garry Richmeier
It seems to be part of our DNA to sort everything in life into two categories — right or wrong, good or bad. Of course, we are always on the “right” side and to demonstrate our “rightness” we demonize the other side and problems ensue. How can we break the cycle?
By Fr. Ron Will, CPPS
I hope that my reflections make you more attentive to the Eucharistic Prayer at the next Mass you attend. When you really listen to the readings and the prayers, the pieces of the puzzle of the Mass come together and you see the incredible vision God has for us.