December

Throughout Advent the Church longed ardently for the coming of Christ. Today she celebrates with unrestrained joy.

In 1527, Our Lady appeared to the Aztec Indian Cuatitletoatzien, who later became known as St. Juan Diego.

Lucy made a vow of virginity and distributed her wealth to the poor. She died as a martyr to maintain that vow.

Ember Days are three days (Wednesday, Friday and Saturday) set apart in each of the four seasons for fasting, abstinence and prayer. Tied to the seasonal cycles of farming and harvesting, the purpose of Ember Days is to render thanks to God for the gifts of Creation and to ask His help in using them well.

The Octave before Christmas Eve is a time of increased spiritual focus, which is called the “Golden Nights”.

The entire liturgy of Christmas Eve is consecrated to the anticipation of the certain and sure arrival of the Savior.

A Holy Day of Obligation in the U.S., the Immaculate Conception is the Patronness of the United States.

St. Nicholas’ fabled generosity inspired today’s Santa Claus. He also helped defeat the heresy of Arianism.

Advent is a season of preparation and anticipation, marked by four Sundays leading up to Christmas.