If we hadn’t seen enough Christmas lights this season — on houses, trees, bushes, and department stores — this past Sunday, we were absolutely festooned with them. The reading from Isaiah announced in the very first line: “Your light has come!” And it kept on coming. “Nations shall walk by your light,” the prophet continues, and the Scriptures go on to speak of “shining radiance,” “light,” and, in Matthew’s memorable gospel, the star that guided the magi to Bethlehem. We are positively blinded by illumination.
Author: Wandy Ortiz
Seeing Double: For Pair of Priests, Shared Faith Is Part of Their DNA
For many people, having a sibling who mirrors their every move might seem more frustrating than comforting. However, for two sets of twins in New York City, their shared bond has profoundly strengthened their faith and spiritual lives. The lives of Father Mark Amatrucola and Father Chris Lawton are intertwined not just by being twins, but by their shared journeys into the priesthood.
Jubilee Mascot Is Having Its Viral Moment
The upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year will be an opportunity for Catholics of all ages and backgrounds worldwide to embark on a journey — literally and spiritually — that can redefine their understanding of the faith.
School Helps Kids Stay Socialized in Pandemic
Recess is a chance for kids to be themselves: get up from behind the school desk, meet up with friends from other classes, and put their high energy to good use. But this school year, playground time looks a lot more like an office coffee break for young ones in Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Brooklyn.
Black-Owned Business Puts Faith in Brooklyn’s Caribbean Community
Nestle Brunache is a teacher by trade, but a restauranteur by a blessing. And who does he thank for that? God, and the community in Prospect Heights that comes to the table at BK9 Kitchen and Bar.
Inspired by Her Faith, Amanda Gorman Urges People to ‘Be the Light’
“For there is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it” — these final words from Inaugural Poet Amanda Gorman encapsulate hope. More than that, these words encapsulate faith in humanity.
Motivated by Faith, Catholic Scientists Look Beyond Earth’s Galaxy
After an unexpected 2020, this year began with Jupiter, Pluto, and Saturn’s conjunction — a nighttime view akin to the North Star that led the Magi to the Baby Jesus. For some, the sight was a reminder of just how beautiful God’s creation is, even in the most difficult times.
Tunes From the Caribbean Show Christmas Music Has a Beat
At this time of year, many in the Diocese of Brooklyn would be preparing their hearts and homes for Christmas get-togethers, door-to-door caroling, and hymns at Christmas Eve midnight Mass.
A Jewish Woman’s Journey Toward the Catholic Faith Amid Livestreamed Mass
For many Catholics, making the transition from in-person to livestreamed Mass during the pandemic has been a sobering experience. It has meant not being able to receive the Eucharist and participate in Mass with the rest of the faithful. That’s not Debbie Starkman-Zdyrko’s experience. She feels closer to her community and the Catholic faith now than she did before quarantine began.
Retired Auxiliary Bishop Octavio Cisneros Presents Our Lady of Sorrows Parish With Statue of Our Lady of Charity
“I come from everywhere and I go everywhere. I am art among the arts and with the mountains, I am one.” These verses, from Cuban patriot and poet José Martí, were on the mind of retired Auxiliary Bishop Octavio Cisneros as he prepared to present Our Lady of Sorrows Church with a statue of Our Lady of Charity.
