On my day off I like to spend time outside – weeding, planting, landscaping. Some of the new plants and hedges I recently purchased however are already dropping dead leaves, but for a good reason – to make room for the new ones to grow. Lent reminds us that for new life and its “foliage” […]

My wife and I have the custom of crossing ourselves and praying for the departed whenever we drive by a cemetery. I recall some years ago, however, while driving behind Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery on Southern Blvd, crossing myself and reciting the usual prayer, “Rest eternal grant unto them O Lord, and may […]

A newly appointed young priest was contracted by a local funeral home in Iowa to hold a graveside service at a small country cemetery. There would be no church service since the deceased had no family or friends left in the area. The priest left early for the cemetery, but got lost along the way. […]

Next Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Lent originated as the period of preparation for those to be baptized at Easter. Jesus and John the Baptist each spent time fasting in the desert before entering into ministry. Christians observe this time of prayer and fasting to prepare for our observance of the […]