Do you know the story of St. Peter when he sees Jesus walking on the stormy Sea of Galilee? St. Peter boldly asks if he can walk to Him on the waves. The rest of the disciples are all sitting in the boat rather content to stay there and wait for Jesus to come to them. But St. Peter is an exuberant soul. He is courageous and willing to take a chance. He asks Jesus if he could walk toward him on the waves. And Jesus allows this with His hand outstretched toward St. Peter. If you are familiar with ... [Read more]
“Let Them Come Unto Us”: Rearing Children Within an Eastern Orthodox Marriage Tradition
The Orthodox marriage rite mentions the hope for offspring several times and asks that the couple “be made glad with the sight of sons and daughters.” The marriage rite is even jokingly referred to as the “Orthodox fertility rite.” Case in point: My non-Orthodox friends who attended my wedding some twenty years ago were taken aback by the many references to procreation. But there’s a reason for these references—the Church’s deep love for the human person and the sacredness it places on all ... [Read more]
A Family Guide to the College Transition
Adolescents transitioning into college face a unique set of challenges. While this new adventure often brings a sense of autonomy and perhaps even invincibility, many young adults also experience unspoken feelings of self-doubt and fear. Having completed high school, many students might feel overwhelmed by questions from parents, teachers and peers alike on what they hope to do with their life now that high school is behind them. As they walk on stage, diploma in hand, even the most prepared ... [Read more]
A Bruised Reed He Will Not Break
“A bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He will not quench” Having experienced the deaths of my parents and in the aftermath dealing with their personal possessions, I know all too well the oscillation between tedium—what do I do with all of these rubber bands?—and fresh feelings of heartache—such as finding a dusty photo of myself with my dad when I was a baby. One day two decades ago while I was mourning my mother’s untimely death, I set out to clean her desk not knowing what ... [Read more]
Reclaiming the Family Dinner
Why Family Dinner Matters Studies have shown that kids who eat with their families frequently are less likely to get depressed, consider suicide, or develop an eating disorder. They are also more likely to have better grades, delay sex, and not abuse drugs and alcohol. Reclaim your family time together by gathering around the table and giving thanks to God. Make a family plan to intentionally DISCONNECT from cell phones at the table. Experience the transforming power of engaging in ... [Read more]
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