Mary Mother of God

Mary, Mother of God – January 1, 2013

(This homily was written for and first published in the book, Hungry and You Fed Me: Homilies and Reflections for Cycle C.)

Many years ago, I befriended a woman with whom I had nothing in common. In fact, we were far apart in many ways. She was one of the “cool people” that a self-professed nerd like me might never get to know. However, academic circumstances brought us together, and we became good friends. What struck me the most about her, when we first became more closely acquainted, was how “human” she turned out to be. From my original point of view, this woman seemed to have it all; she appeared completely self-confident and self-possessed, she was remarkably beautiful, and she maintained an aura of perfection that seemed unattainable to us mere mortals.

Over time we got to know one another, and a real friendship began to develop. This woman began to reveal just how challenging things were for her. First of all, she was not perfect, although I found that hard to believe. At that age, I believed that we were all socially divided into some “have/have not scheme” when it came to perfection. To that end, I was

Hungry and You Fed Me – Book and giveawy

The new liturgical year begins on Sunday, the First Sunday of Advent, when we enter Cycle C. It is not too late to be looking for resources for prayer, reflection and study – in fact, this being Advent, you should go slowly.

If you are looking for something, I would like to recommend a volume that I have the privilege of being a part of; Hungry and You Fed Me: Homilies and Reflections for Cycle C. This book and charitable project was conceived by Deacon Jim Knipper, and includes many esteemed contributors, such as Richard Rohr OFM and James Martin SJ. There is beautiful cover and interior art by Michael O’Neill McGrath OSFS. The beautiful forward is written by dear friend and talented author, Meredith Gould. This is an ecumenical project, and the works of Presbyterian, Episcopalian and other Christians are included, which in my estimation enriches the insights offered. Some of the offerings are from ordained ministers, priests, and deacons, but also from lay people like myself.