Joseph the Levite believed in second chances. The apostles called him Barnabas, meaning “son of encouragement.”
Outward and Visible Signs of Friendship
Saint Aelred of Rievaulx is known for his work on spiritual friendship.
Reflections and a Life Well Lived
For a friendship more separate than equal, we don our funeral black, and sign the guest book on the way in, all our children watching and following our lead with solemnity.
Recognizing Barnabas and All Extraordinary Encouragers
Twelve years ago, I packed up my beloved Virginia home of nearly a decade and moved to New England. 72 hours later, amid a sea of boxes, I called my best friend Merritt—2,000 miles away—certain that I had made a mistake.
Transforming Our Back to School Fears
In the days leading up to the start of school I had several conversations with my son Sam and all of them started the same: “Mom, I’m scared to start first grade.”
The Loving Vulnerability of the Visitation
Today we celebrate the Visitation of Mary. The Visitation is when Mary, pregnant with Jesus, goes to visit her cousin Elizabeth, pregnant with John (the baptizer). I like to think about this holy friendship—this time of mutual support and love for each other.
Outward and Visible Signs of Friendship
Saint Aelred of Rievaulx is known for his work on spiritual friendship. What a time to be confronted with the idea of spiritual friendship, when friendship might feel like the furthest-away love we are feeling.
Hand Me Down Treasures
She is clothed with strength and dignity,and she laughs without fear of the future. —Proverbs 31:25, NLT
Saints Around Us: Galentine’s Day
The sitcom “Parks and Recreation” introduced a new holy day into my personal liturgical calendar: Galentine’s Day.
A Tween Summer’s End
It’s a Sunday after church and we’re stuffing Nutella-ed plates and oatmeal-ed bowls into the dishwasher while also fixing lunch. Except one of us is already done and inviting the neighbors over.