Because Mary herself was from the eastern Mediterranean, the subtle incorporation by Renaissance painters of abstractly rendered Arabic or Hebrew in religious art linguistically linked their sacred subjects to the region’s Biblical past as well as its bounteous wealth.
Read MoreChurchgoing adults in the U.S. are likely to make financial and item donations during the Christmas season, according to a Lifeway Research study. More than four in five U.S. Protestant churchgoers say they typically make an extra monetary donation this time of year, while three in \four usually give new items to help others.
Read MoreCollections of Christmas music often include a few popular Advent hymns sung in Protestant services and even in Christmas parties, such as “Joy to the World,” “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” and, especially, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Many Catholic Advent hymns focus on the role of Mary, the mother of Jesus, such as "Rorate Caeli (Drop down, Ye Heavens).”
Read More(ANALYSIS) One of the things I love about the Christmas season is the music. The ancient music is, of course, powerful. Time-tested hymns and carols still satisfy. But I am also impressed with a current crop of creators using their gifts to “make all things new.” An artist who bears special consideration in this conversation is Andrew Peterson.
Read More(OPINION) Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI declared that “art and the saints are the greatest apologetic for our faith.” A movement was launched to transform painters into “tacit preachers,” wrote Gabriele Paleotti, archbishop of Bologna. The term tacit means wordless. Tacit preachers sought to move viewers in deeper ways than mere argument. Art provided a way to draw people together instead of tearing them apart.
Read More(OPINION) Advent began Sunday. Most Christians know what Advent signifies: a time of penitence and preparation. And they know how it signifies these two: four Advent wreath candles. But why do we observe Advent? Dallas Willard had a “why” you might find surprising.
Read MoreThe start of the pandemic in March 2020 forced churches across the world to shut their doors. Catholic churches followed suit and Masses were streamed via Zoom and Facebook. Nearly three years later and churches are trying to return to normal.
Read More(TRAVEL) Among all the hustle, bustle and stress that comes with Christmas, we should also all be reminded that it is a time of prayer. While prayer can take up many forms, Catholics are returning to in-person Mass now that COVID-19 lockdowns have largely been done away with.
Read More(OPINION) We are currently in “the most wonderful time of the year,” as the popular Christmas song by Andy Williams goes. For many Christians, however, the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day are marked by Advent, a time of prayer in preparation for the birth of Jesus. In Eastern churches, this season is called Nativity Lent.
Read More(REVIEW) “Carlo Acutis: God’s Computer Genius” makes for a perfect present for your child or preteen this Christmas. Catholic children are no strangers to books featuring saints, but Acutis is special because he speaks to the current generation. That is why his life is worth re-examination and why this is a book worth stuffing into a Christmas stocking.
Read More(OPINION) Metzger analyzes the time period between Advent and Lent, known as “secular,” and explains its importance to the extraordinary nature of life—not just the year 2020.
Read More(REVIEW) David Geisser’s new cookbook in time for the holidays, The Vatican Christmas Cookbook, offers up over 100 recipes from around the world.
Read More(OPINION) Something truly magical happens by the end when Charlie Brown asks what the true meaning of Christmas is. Instead of more commercialism, Linus sets his friend — and everyone else — straight and delivers a truly important message.
Read More(OPINION) The COVID-19 pandemic and political turmoil have left Black communities and faith-based groups struggling and in need of a large-scale response that can stabilize and strengthen their vital role in American society.
Read MoreThe museum’s famed nativity creche, currently on display through January 6, features the baby Jesus with a radiant halo surrounded by figures that range in size from 12 to 15 inches in height.
Read MoreA piece of wood believed to be from Jesus’ manger arrived in Bethlehem on Saturday. Palestinian Christians are celebrating its presence, and local businesses are hoping it will bring more tourists.
Read MoreChristmas is more than just Santa Claus, bright lights and presents. For Christians, the season, marked by the start of Advent, begins a period that culminates with the birth of Jesus. While Christians of many denominations observe this period, the Roman Catholic Church celebrates the four weeks preceding Christmas with many special observances in order to prepare for the coming of Christ.
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