Monthly Archives: December 2008

Christmas 2008: Homily from Midnight Mass

Posted on December 24, 2008 by frmichelrcc

The prophets often used the metaphor of darkness to describe the world as they knew it and offered hope in the metaphor of God’s light that would transcend and dispel the darkness. A few days ago, I understood more fully … Continue reading →

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A Dog in Bethlehem

Posted on December 24, 2008 by frmichelrcc

This time of year, many churches put up a nativity display, and I’ve noticed over the years that these scenes often include placing a dog before the manger, usually in the company of a shepherd.  This suggests something important about … Continue reading →

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Anticipating the Joy!

Posted on December 18, 2008 by frmichelrcc

This is the 3rd Sunday of Advent and we’re more than halfway through our wait for Christmas.  Today’s liturgical color is rose, hence the change in fabric on the altar today.  We are more than halfway to the great feast … Continue reading →

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Keeping the Feast

Posted on December 17, 2008 by frmichelrcc

My 10 years serving as diak in a Ukrainian Orthodox parish brought me into contact with a wonderful Eastern European tradition for Christmas Eve, called Sviata Vechera, or “Holy Supper”.  The basic idea is this: twelve courses of food are … Continue reading →

Posted in Grief and Grieving, Seasonal Ruminations | 2 Comments

Advent Nightmares

Posted on December 17, 2008 by frmichelrcc

The Gospel reading for the First Sunday of Advent is certainly NOT very comforting.  It’s far removed from our notions of who our God is and who God is calling us to become.  Perhaps there should be a warning label attached … Continue reading →

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