While we met Martha, Mary, and Lazarus in the Gospels, we don’t learn much about them, other than they were close friends and disciples of Jesus. We don’t know how they met Jesus or whether they were related to Him. Yet, our Church has designated July 29th as the day we celebrate their lives and the impact they have had on our faith.

Joseph’s chastity, and his purity of heart, which includes but goes beyond just physical purity, enabled him to embrace God’s will, no matter the apparent cost to himself or the strenuousness of the undertaking. The pure, unadulterated gaze of Joseph’s heart upon God made it extremely sensitive and supple to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit, as revealed to him by God’s messenger angels.

Risk demands faith. And faith is what activates God’s providence in our lives. Go boldly into new spaces that take you out of your comfort zone. One thing I know for sure, God is ready and waiting to meet you there.

Two young mothers, celebrated today on March 7, are included in the Roman Canon (Eucharistic Prayer 1) among a list of early Church martyrs. Most people don’t know their story, but we can all learn from their faith and fortitude.

Saint Polycarp was one of the earliest defenders of Christianity. He was a disciple of Saint John the Apostle, and therefore provided a bridge between those who knew Christ directly and those who would learn indirectly about Him and His teachings and make the choice to devote their life to His way. 

Every year World Marriage Day is celebrated by the Church worldwide as a day set aside to honor marriage as the foundation of family life. It is a beautiful opportunity for the Church to celebrate the example marriage demonstrates of honor, beauty, dignity, and living out one’s vocation.