Several years ago now, when my husband and I were living in Ann Arbor, Michigan, we made an epic journey together to Hell and back. Now, I’m not trying to evoke a metaphor here to refer to a tumultuous time in our lives. Rather, I’m speaking about our trip to Hell, Michigan, a small and unconventional community in Livingston County. Whenever I think back to this trip, I am reminded of important life lessons on trust and encountering God in all circumstances.

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.

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. 

This Third Week of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, we are rejoicing because of the anticipation of the long-awaited Messiah. Advent, a season of preparation, is coming to an end, and Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior will be coming into the world just as the Scriptures foretold. We need to continue to prepare for His arrival in our hearts, minds, and actions.

How do we find peace in a culture that never stops talking? How do we hold onto stillness in our work, our homes, and our hearts? This Advent, Catholic Women in Businesses encourages you to turn to the Beatitudes.

As Catholic women in business, we are called not just to achieve but to anoint—to bring grace, truth, and presence into the marketplace. We are not just strategists. We are stewards. We are not just leaders. We are light bearers.