I had this plan for Simbang Gabi, the nine 5 a.m. Masses we celebrate at my parish starting December 16 and
Category: Catholicism
Praise Before Dawn
Call it Simbang Gabi, call it Misa de Gallo, call it crazy if you will. But the Filipino tradition of an insanely early Mass starts up again at my church in Arlington at 5 a.m.–yes, that’s 5 a.m.–this Thursday and runs through
And So, We Wait
“What are you doing for Lent?” Catholics are fond of asking each other at that time of year. Contrary to popular belief, Lent for us isn’t just about going without chocolate or wine. It’s about behavior modification to better honor
Confession: It’s Good for the Soul
The homily I heard the first Sunday in Advent wasn’t the usual “longing for our Savior” one. Instead, the priest talked about what we do in darkness—and how frightening it can be to shine the light on those things. Paradoxically, confession—part of shining the light on our darkness—keeps many inactive Catholics away from the Church.… Continue reading Confession: It’s Good for the Soul