Author Archives: joyocala

We are already in the church season of Advent. Advent season prepares us with expectation, mindfulness, and preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. It is easy to forget the “reason for the season,” and get caught up in shopping … Continue reading →

Only thirteen days until Christmas Day! The anticipation of this special day is so muchdifferent for me as an adult than when I was young. As a child I loved being in thechurch Christmas program and we usually had a … Continue reading →

I can still remember the excitement in our large household at the arrival of the winter edition of the mighty Sears Roebuck Christmas Catalog. Crowded with just about anything your heart could desire, our catalog became jammed with tiny alphabet letters indicating to Santa which prize was wanted … Continue reading →

I always thought it might be nice to have Martin as my middle name–after Martin Luther, you know. I sort of got a chance to do that when I became a Benedictine oblate. First some explanations. The Order of St. … Continue reading →

One of my favorite scriptures, Joel 2:28-32, is often read during this Advent season, for it foretells the coming of the Messiah. That is enough reason to like it, but I also like it because of its beautiful poetry. I … Continue reading →

It’s the most common prefix in the English language. It’s also my favorite. It’s all about starting over, getting a fresh start. In centering prayer, you are encouraged to use a word that redirects you when your mind wanders. Trust … Continue reading →

I don’t know about you, but I sometimes feel overwhelmed with fear and sadness.  I see so much hatred around me.  I worry about where it is going.  Have we become blind to the fact that there is another way?  … Continue reading →

In the book of Ecclesiastes, written probably by King Solomon, chapter 3:1 states, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” (King Solomon reigned 970-931 BCE. My point in sharing this information is to confirm, this … Continue reading →

Judging someone by their outward appearance is a common routine in our world. It’s an easy trap to fall into as our society is obsessed with image, status and physical beauty. We revere those who have the most money, the … Continue reading →

For All the Saints  Here’s another Advent tradition practiced by the Von Trapp Family: Choosing Saints. The family gathered together to light the Advent candle and sing the first Advent hymn. Then they each chose a saint’s name to “invoke” … Continue reading →