Saints

Faithful, Faulty Families

By Marilyn Rodrigues | February 19, 2013

It is in the family that we learn what it is to love. Christ calls us not be perfectly happy, but to trust in him…

Reclaiming Halloween

By Francine Pirola | August 26, 2012

Like it or loath it, there’s no escaping the marketing presence of Halloween. Parents are wise to approach this festival with caution. The practice of…

St Mary of the Cross Mackillop

By Marilyn Rodrigues | August 14, 2012

For the first time, on August 8, 2011, the universal Church will honour Australia’s first saint, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. It has always…

Saints for Mothers

By Marilyn Rodrigues | August 7, 2012

St Gerard Majella | Feast day: October 16 | Patron of expectant mothers | 1755 AD Born at Muro, Italy, in 1726, St Gerard joined…

Paper Chain of Peace

By Kiara Pirola | July 31, 2012

The origami paper crane is a traditional symbol of peace. Instructions on how to make them can be found with an internet search, or try…

Peace Prayer of St Francis of Assisi

By Kiara Pirola | July 31, 2012

St Francis is well known for his commitment to poverty, simplicity and peace. During the fifth crusade, he travelled to the holy lands spending considerable…

The Mini Litany of Saints

By Kiara Pirola | July 18, 2012

The Litany of Saints is an ancient and complex prayer. It has a beautiful rhythm swinging gracefully between the leader and respondents (bold text). It…

St Nicholas Candy Cane Blessing

By Francine Pirola | July 16, 2012

This little family prayer ritual is a perfect way to celebrate St Nicholas’ feast day on the 6th of December. For more information on St…

St Nic Candy Cane Holder

By Francine Pirola | July 16, 2012

St Nicolas is usually depicted in crimson or deep purple bishop robes (not the bright red of commercial Santas). The European tradition of hanging stockings…

The Jesse Tree Prayer

By Francine Pirola | July 16, 2012

Preparation: Jesse  Tree branches or banner. One (or more) Jesse Tree symbols ready. Scripture story ready. Download Scripture Stories Jesse Tree Prayer Lord God, Our…

Making Your Own Jesse Tree

By Francine Pirola | July 16, 2012

Beginning a new Advent Tradition in your family could not be simpler. A Jesse Tree is a simple ritual that comes with a prayer (see…

A Mackillop Feast!

By Francine Pirola | July 9, 2012

Australians are always looking for an excuse to roll out the festive foods that our Northern hemisphere brethren enjoy in their Winter season. Instead of…